WO2024191577A2

WO2024191577A2 - Lighting device energy storage (ldes) unit including a battery pack, and a lighting device including the ldes unit and a ldes unit controller

Info

Publication number: WO2024191577A2
Application number: PCT/US2024/017015
Authority: WO
Inventors: Guillermo Garcia; Arvind Kumar PEEHAL; Andrew Malek; Ross Peters; Harshwardhan WADIKAR
Original assignee: Samsar Resources, Llc
Priority date: 2023-02-23
Filing date: 2024-02-23
Publication date: 2024-09-19
Also published as: WO2024191577A3

Abstract

A lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit includes a LDES unit housing, a battery pack in the LDES unit housing, including a battery pack housing, a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types located in the battery pack housing, and a battery management system (BMS) unit electrically coupled to the plurality of energy storage devices and configured to manage an operation of the plurality of energy storage devices.

Description

LIGHTING DEVICE ENERGY STORAGE (LDES) UNIT INCLUDING A BATTERY PACK, AND A LIGHTING DEVICE INCLUDING THE LDES UNIT AND A LDES UNIT CONTROLLER

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority from India Provisional Application No. 202341012335, filed February 23, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit including a battery pack, and a lighting device including the LDES unit and a LDES unit controller.

BACKGROUND

[0003] A lighting device (e.g., exterior lighting device) may provide lighting for outdoor areas such as streets, parking lots, parks, and building exteriors. The exterior lighting device may typically include, for example, a light source (e.g., lamp), a power source, and a control system.

[0004] The light source may include, for example, an incandescent light or a lightemitting diode (LED) light which is energy efficient and has a long lifespan. The power source may include a grid-connected power source (e.g., electric utility), an off-grid power source (e.g., solar power, wind power, battery power, etc.) or a hybrid power source including elements of both the grid-connected and off-grid power sources.

[0005] The control system may regulate an operation of the light source and can be designed to turn the light source on and off (e.g., automatically), adjust a brightness of the light source, schedule when the light source should be turned on, etc.. The control system may use an algorithm and one or more sensors (e.g., motion sensors) to minimize energy consumption and adjust the light source based on weather conditions, such as overcast skies or heavy rain.

SUMMARY

[0006] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit may include a LDES unit housing, a battery pack in the LDES unit housing, including a battery pack housing, a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types located in the battery pack housing, and a battery management system (BMS) unit electrically coupled to the plurality of energy storage devices and configured to manage an operation of the plurality of energy storage devices.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a lighting device may include a light source, a lighting device controller configured to control an operation of the light source, and a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit configured to store energy for powering the light source, wherein the LDES unit includes a battery pack including a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types, and a LDES unit controller communicatively coupled to the lighting device controller and the battery pack and configured to control an operation of the LDES unit.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the LDES unit controller may include a memory device configured to store history data and performance data of the LDES unit, a processor configured to access the memory device and control an operation of the LDES unit based on the history data and performance data, and a telematics unit configured to communicatively couple the LDES unit controller to a BMS unit of a battery pack in the LDES unit.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an electrical device may include an electrical equipment, an electrical device controller configured to control an operation of the electrical equipment, and an electrical device energy storage (EDES) unit configured to store energy to power the electrical equipment, wherein the EDES unit comprises: a battery pack including a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types, and an EDES unit controller communicatively coupled to the electrical device controller and the battery pack and configured to control an operation of the EDES unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] For a better understanding of the various described embodiments, reference should be made to the Detailed Description below, in conjunction with the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the Figures.

[0011] FIG. 1 A is a vertical cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to one or more embodiments.

[0012] FIG. IB is a vertical cross-sectional view of a battery cell stack according to one or more embodiments. [0013] FIG. 1C is a vertical cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one or more embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 2A is a plan view of the battery pack having the first design according to one or more embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 2B is a schematic view of the BMS unit in the battery pack having the first design according to one or more embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 2C is a plan view of a battery pack bracket in the battery pack having the first design according to one or more embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 3A is a plan view of the battery pack having the second design according to one or more embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 3B is a schematic view of the BMS unit in the battery pack having the second design according to one or more embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 3C is a plan view of a battery pack bracket in the battery pack having the second design according to one or more embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a method of replacing an energy storage device (e.g., battery cell stack, battery module, etc.) in the battery pack according to one or more embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a lighting device according to one or more embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the lighting device according to one or more embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the LDES unit according to one or more embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of the LDES unit controller according to one or more embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a plan view of the LDES unit bracket in the LDES unit according to one or more embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method of replacing the battery pack in the LDES unit, according to one or more embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a lighting system according to one or more embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a lighting system according to an alternative embodiment. [0029] FIG. 13 A is a schematic illustration of an electrical device according to one or more embodiments.

[0030] FIG. 13B is a block diagram of the lighting device according to one or more embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of an electrical device according to an alternative embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of an electrical device according to another alternative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] As discussed above, the embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit including a battery pack, and a lighting device including the LDES unit and a LDES unit controller, the various aspects of which are discussed herein in detail. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Multiple instances of an element may be duplicated where a single instance of the element is illustrated, unless absence of duplication of elements is expressly described or clearly indicated otherwise. Ordinals such as “first,” “second,” and “third” are employed merely to identify similar elements, and different ordinals may be employed across the specification and the claims of the instant disclosure. The same reference numerals refer to the same element or similar element. Unless otherwise indicated, elements having the same reference numerals are presumed to have the same composition. As used herein, a first element located “on” a second element can be located on the exterior side of a surface of the second element or on the interior side of the second element. As used herein, a first element is located “directly on” a second element if there exist a physical contact between a surface of the first element and a surface of the second element. As used herein, a “layer” refers to a continuous portion of at least one material including a region having a thickness. A layer may consist of a single material portion having a homogeneous composition or may include multiple material portions having different compositions.

[0034] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include a battery pack for a lighting device (i.e., a lighting device battery pack). The battery pack may include, for example, a solar street light battery pack. The battery pack (e.g., solar street light battery pack) may use repurposed battery cells and/or battery modules. The battery pack elements, such as interconnectivity, monitoring, placement, wiring and safety permit incorporation of a variety of new or used battery cells and battery modules. [0035] One or more embodiments may also include a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit that may include the battery pack. The lighting device energy storage unit may be used to store energy for a lighting device, such as a solar street light. In at least one embodiment, the lighting device energy storage unit may include a housing enclosure (including a security lock and mounting brackets). The housing enclosure may include, for example, a National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) 3R rated outer casing used for environmental and/or structural purposes. The lighting device energy storage unit may also include a solar controller, electrical relays and/or fuses, wiring, temperature control/monitoring/venting (e.g., fans, sensors, etc.) and a telematics/communication unit (e.g., board). The lighting device energy storage unit may also include the battery pack. The battery pack may include one or more new battery cells, new battery modules, repurposed battery cells and/or repurposed battery modules. The battery pack may also include a battery management system (BMS), wiring, terminals and an independent housing, such as an IP67 rated housing enclosure. The battery pack may include a plurality of battery cells (e.g., 1 to 500 battery cells) connected in series and/or parallel configuration.

[0036] In at least one embodiment, the battery pack may include mixed battery cells and mixed battery modules. The battery pack may monitor and/or track overall performance of the battery pack. The battery pack may also monitor and/or track performance of each of the battery cells and battery modules. In particular, the battery pack may include different repurposed cell compositions, and may provide tracking, monitoring and management of the different repurposed cell compositions. The battery pack may therefore, facilitate the adoption of repurposed used cells and create a technical pathway to ensure safety, compatibility, and simplicity thereof.

[0037] The battery pack may be designed for interconnectivity and easy removal from the lighting device energy storage unit (e.g., housing enclosure). The lighting device energy storage unit may include capability of swapping battery packs at any given moment when a battery pack no longer meets the application requirement.

[0038] The battery pack design may include a plurality of different battery cell compositions including, for example, single battery cell composition, mixed battery cell composition, single battery module composition and mixed battery module composition. [0039] The battery pack may utilize multiple battery cell and/or multiple battery module configurations while maintaining safe operation. The placement of the BMS within the battery pack can vary depending on the type of battery cell composition, battery cell orientation, battery module composition, battery module orientation, etc. [0040] The BMS may be designed to balance and power each type of configuration, paying close attention to the voltage/safety limits set by the application. In the case of a mixed battery cell and/or mixed module composition, individual limits may be set for varying chemistries by the BMS. The BMS architecture and wiring schematics for the battery pack may create simple standardization for ultimate flexibility. In at least one embodiment, the lighting device battery cell may include more than one BMS.

[0041] The battery pack may also include an adjustable locking mechanism. The adjustable locking mechanism may assist with physical placement of the battery cells and/or battery modules where the battery pack includes a different battery cell composition and/or different battery module composition. The adjustable locking mechanism may allow the battery pack to orient varying shapes and sizes accurately.

[0042] The lighting device energy storage unit may also include an adjustable locking mechanism. The adjustable locking mechanism may assist with physical placement of the battery pack in the lighting device energy storage unit (e.g., housing enclosure). In particular, the locking mechanism may also accurately orient varying shapes and sizes of one or more battery packs.

[0043] FIGS. 1 A-1C are vertical cross-sectional views of energy storage devices according to one more embodiments. In at least one embodiment, the energy storage devices may be used to store energy for powering a lighting device.

[0044] In particular, FIG. 1 A is a vertical cross-sectional view of a battery cell 103 according to one or more embodiments. FIG. IB is a vertical cross-sectional view of a battery cell stack 104 according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 1C is a vertical cross- sectional view of a battery module 100 according to one or more embodiments. Each of the battery cell 103, the battery cell stack 104 and the battery module 100 may be referred to as an energy storage device.

[0045] The battery cell 103 (e.g., electrochemical cell) in FIG. 1 A may include any type of energy storage device that may store chemical energy and convert it to electrical energy (e.g., electrical current). The battery cell 103 may include a positive end 103p having a positive battery cell terminal coupled to a positive (e.g., cathode) electrode, a negative end 103n having a negative battery cell terminal coupled to a negative (e.g., anode) electrode, and an electrolyte with an optional separator between the electrodes. The battery cell 103 may be a secondary (e.g., rechargeable) battery cell. In at least one embodiment, the battery cell 103 may include a lithium-ion battery cell (e.g., a lithium iron phosphate cell, lithium cobalt oxide cell, lithium manganese oxide cell, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide cell, lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide cell, lithium titanate cell, etc.), a sodium-ion battery cell, a nickel cadmium battery cell, and/or a nickel metal hydride battery cell. The battery cell 103 may commonly be configured, for example, as a pouch cell, a cylindrical cell or a prismatic cell. Other types of battery cells 103 (e.g., other types of chemical compositions) are within the contemplated scope of disclosure. For example, instead of cells having ion insertion (i.e., intercalation) type anode and cathode electrodes, the cells may comprise hybrid cell stacks having one intercalation electrode (e.g., cathode) and one non-ion insertion type (e.g., double layer capacitor type) electrode (e.g., anode). Alternatively, the cells may have two non-ion insertion electrodes (e.g., supercapacitor type cell stacks).

[0046] The battery cell stack 104 in FIG. IB may include one or more battery cells 103 stacked (e.g., in the z-direction) on each other. The battery cell stack 104 may include a positive end 104p having a positive battery cell stack terminal (not shown) and a negative end 104n having a negative battery cell stack terminal (not shown). In the battery cell stack 104, the battery cells 103 may be electrically connected in series (as shown in FIG. 1 A) and/or in parallel. In at least one embodiment, the battery cells 103 may be stacked in a series arrangement in which the positive battery cell terminal 103P of a battery cell 103 contacts a negative battery cell terminal 103n of an overlying battery cell 103. Other configurations of the battery cell stack 104 are within the contemplated scope of disclosure.

[0047] As illustrated in FIG. 1C, the battery module 100 may include a battery module housing 102 and a plurality of battery cell stacks 104 in the battery module housing 102. The battery module 100 may also include terminals 106 (e.g., external terminals) connected to the battery cells stacks 104. The terminals 106 may include one or more positive terminals 106P located on a first side 102sl of the battery module housing 102 and electrically coupled to a positive end of the plurality of battery cell stacks 104 (e.g., to the battery cells 103). The terminals 106 may also include one or more negative terminals 106N located on the first side 102sl of the battery module housing 102 and electrically coupled to a negative end of the plurality of battery cell stacks 104 (e.g., to the battery cells 103). The positive terminal 106P and negative terminal 106N may have a "male" configuration projecting out of the first side 102s 1 of the battery module housing 102.

[0048] The negative terminal 106N may alternatively be formed on a second side 102s2 of the battery module housing 102 (opposite the first side 102s 1 ) and have a "female" configuration projecting into the second side 102s2. This design may allow the battery module 100 to be conveniently stacked together one or more other battery modules in a series arrangement. In that case, the negative terminal 106N may be substantially aligned (in the z- direction) with the positive terminal 106P, so that the positive terminal 106P may be inserted into the negative terminal 106N in the series arrangement.

[0049] Although the battery module 100 is illustrated with one positive terminal 106P and one negative terminal 106N, any number of positive terminals 106P and negative terminals 106N may be included in the battery module 100. The positive terminal 106P may have the same shape or different shape as the negative terminal 106N.

[0050] The positive terminal 106P and negative terminal 106N may include one or more layers of conductive material. The positive terminal 106P and negative terminal 106N may have a cylindrical shape, such as a circular cylindrical shape, square cylindrical shape, etc. The positive terminal 106P and negative terminal 106N may be connected to the battery module housing 102, such as by a fastener (e.g., screw), soldering, welding, etc.

[0051] The positive terminal 106P and negative terminal 106N may include the same materials. The positive terminal 106P and negative terminal 106N may include one or more layers of metal or metal alloy. In at least one embodiment, the positive terminal 106P and negative terminal 106N may include copper, lead, or alloys of copper or lead. Other materials may be within the contemplated scope of disclosure.

[0052] The battery module housing 102 may include, for example, a substantially hollow cuboid shape having six sidewalls. The six sidewalls may include the first sidewall 102sl and the second sidewall 102s2. The six sidewalls may also include a third sidewall 102s3 and a fourth sidewall 102s4 opposite the third sidewall 102s3, that connect the first sidewall 102sl to the second sidewall 102s2. The six sidewalls may also include a fifth sidewall (in front of the plane of FIG. 1C, not shown) and a sixth sidewall (behind the plane of FIG. 1C, not shown) opposite the fifth sidewall. The fifth sidewall and sixth sidewall may connect the first sidewall 102sl to the second sidewall 102s2 and connect the third sidewall 102s3 to the fourth sidewall 102s4. Other shapes of the battery module housing 102 are within the contemplated scope of disclosure.

[0053] The battery module housing 102 may be divided into two separate sections to allow access to an interior of the battery module housing 102. The two sections may include, for example, an upper section including the first side wall 102 s 1 and a lower section including the second sidewall 102s2. In at least one embodiment, the two separate sections may be connected by a connecting structure (not shown), such as a hinge. In at least one embodiment, the battery module housing 102 may include a box-shaped case body (lower section) having a lid (upper section) that opens upward. [0054] The six sidewalls of the battery module housing 102 may be formed, for example, of a rigid material such as a metal, ceramic or polymer material. Other materials are within the contemplated scope of disclosure. The battery module housing 102 may be formed, for example, by mold forming, milling, casting, etc.

[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 1C, the battery cell stacks 104 may be arranged in the battery module housing 102 such that the positive ends 104p and the negative ends 104n alternate between facing the first sidewall 102s 1 of the battery module housing 102 and facing the second sidewall 102s2 of the battery module housing 102. The battery cell stacks 104 may be connected together in a series. In an alternative embodiment, the battery cell stacks 104 may be connected together in parallel. In at least one embodiment, the battery cell stacks 104 may include a combination of series connections and parallel connections. The battery module 100 may also include battery cell stack interconnects 110 (e.g., bus bars) for electrically coupling the ends of the battery cell stacks 104. The interconnects 110 may be press fit or otherwise fastened to the battery cell stack terminals.

[0056] The battery module 100 may also include a positive wiring line 112p connecting the positive end 104p of the series connected battery cell stacks 104 to the positive terminal 106P. The battery module 100 may also include negative wiring line 1 12n connecting the negative end 104n of the series connected battery cell stacks 104 to the negative terminal 106N. The positive wiring line 112p and the negative wiring line 112n may be formed, for example, of an insulated wire, such as an insulated copper wire. Other materials may be within the contemplated scope of disclosure.

[0057] The battery module 100 may also include a battery management system (BMS) 120 for controlling an operation of the battery module 100. The BMS 120 may be electrically coupled to each of the battery cell stacks 104. In at least on embodiment, the BMS 120 may include a cell interface that measures cell voltages and temperatures and provides cell balancing (e.g., equalization).

[0058] The BMS 120 may keep the battery module 100 from operating outside of its safety margins and monitor the battery cell stacks 104 and calculate how much current can safely go in (charge) and come out (discharge) without damaging the battery module 100. The BMS 120 may thereby prevent a source (e.g., a battery charger) and load (such as an inverter) from overdrawing or overcharging the battery. The BMS 120 may also monitor the remaining charge in the battery, continually tracking the amount of energy (e.g., power) entering and exiting the battery cells 103 and/or battery cell stacks 104 and monitoring voltages and/or currents of the battery cell stacks 104. The BMS 120 may collect and store data indicating that the battery module 100 is drained and shut the battery module 100 down. The BMS 120 may also monitor a temperature inside the battery module 100 and control a temperature control system (e.g., cooling fans) (not shown) of the battery module 100 to help maintain the temperature within an operating range. The BMS 120 may also detect a problem (e.g., a short) in the electrical circuitry of the battery module 100.

[0059] In at least one embodiment, the BMS 120 may monitor the state of charge (SOC) of the battery cells 103 and/or battery cell stacks 104 and thereby help to identify a bad battery cell 103 and/or a battery cell stack 104 in the battery module 100. The BMS 120 may also reconfigure the battery module 100 to allow for repurposing of the battery module 100 from one application to another application. The BMS 120 may also include a communications (e.g., telematics) unit that allows the battery module 100 to receive/store and transmit information (e.g., by wireless or wired connection) to and from an external device. In at least one embodiment, the BMS 120 may include a wireless transceiver for wirelessly communicating with a remote device over a wireless network (e.g., cellular, WiFi, bluetooth, etc.). In at least one embodiment, the BMS 120 may include an external communication capability allowing the BMS 120 to communicate with an external device outside of the battery module 100.

[0060] The battery module 100 may also include an input/output (VO) port 140 located on the battery module housing 102. In at least one embodiment, the VO port 140 may be located on the third sidewall 102s3 of the battery module housing 102. The VO port 140 may include any type of data transfer port, such as an RJ45 port. The VO port 140 may be electrically coupled to the BMS 120, and data may be transmitted to and from the BMS 120 through the VO port 140.

[0061] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate a battery pack 300 having a first design according to a first embodiment. In at least one embodiment, the battery pack 300 may be used to store energy for powering a lighting device.

[0062] In particular, FIG. 2A is a plan view of the battery pack 300 having the first design. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the battery pack 300 having the first design may include a plurality of battery cell stacks 104 that may include one or more battery calls 103 (shown in FIG. 1A). The battery cells stacks 104 are illustrated in FIG. 2A as being arranged longitudinally in the y-direction, but the battery cell stacks 104 may alternatively or additionally be arranged longitudinally in the x-direction and/or the z-direction (e.g., vertically). The battery cell stacks 104 are also illustrated in FIG. 2A as being connected in series by interconnects 310 (e.g., bus bars) for electrically coupling the ends of the battery cell stacks 104, but the battery cell stacks 104 may also be connected in parallel or include a combination of both series and parallel connections. The interconnects 310 may be press fit or otherwise fastened to the negative terminals and positive terminals of the battery cell stacks 104.

[0063] The battery pack 300 may include a battery pack housing 302 that houses the battery cell stacks 104. The battery pack housing 302 may have a construction similar to the construction of the battery module 100 described above. In particular, the battery pack housing 302 may have a substantially cuboid shape including a box-shaped case body (lower section) with a lid (upper or side section) that opens upward or sideways. The view of FIG. 2A is a view down into the lower section with the upper or side section (e.g., lid) omitted for ease of understanding. The battery pack housing 302 may include sidewalls formed, for example, of a rigid material such as a metal, ceramic or polymer material.

[0064] The battery pack 300 may further include battery pack terminals 306 (e.g., external terminals) connected to the battery cell stacks 104. The battery pack terminals 306 may include a positive battery pack terminal 306P connected (e.g., electrically connected) to a positive end of the plurality of battery cells stacks 104, and a negative battery pack terminal 306N connected (e.g., electrically connected) to a negative end of the plurality of battery cells stacks 104. The positive battery pack terminal 306P and the negative battery pack terminal 306N may be mounted on a wall (e.g., lid or side facing wall) of the battery pack housing 302. The battery pack terminals 306 may be similar in construction to the terminals 106 of the battery module 100 described above. In at least one embodiment, the battery pack terminals 306 may be configured to be connected to an electrical system of a lighting device (or another device or structure such as a commercial building, residence, machine, tool, vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, etc.) in order to power the lighting device.

[0065] The battery pack 300 may further include a battery management system (BMS) unit 320 configured to monitor and control an operation of the battery pack 300 including an operation of the battery cells stacks 104. The BMS unit 320 may mounted on or in the battery pack housing 302. The BMS unit 320 may be connected to each of the battery cell stacks 104 by one or more battery pack wiring lines 345. In at least one embodiment, the BMS unit 320 may be connected to the positive end and negative end of each of the battery cell stacks 104 by a battery pack wiring lines 345. The BMS unit 320 may also an external VO port 320a connected to an I/O connector 329a of a communication line 329. The BMS unit 320 may transmit data signals to and receive data signals from an external device (e.g., outside the battery pack 300) via the communication line 329. In particular, where the battery pack 300 is used to power a lighting device, the battery pack 300 may communicate with a lighting device controller of the lighting device via the communication line 329. Alternatively, the communication line 329 may be omitted if the BMS unit 320 is configured for wireless communication.

[0066] The BMS unit 320 may keep the battery pack 300 from operating outside of its safety margins. The BMS unit 320 may monitor each of the battery cell stacks 104 (and/or each of the battery cells 103 in each of the battery cell stacks 104) and calculate how much current can safely go in (charge) and come out (discharge) without damaging the battery pack 300. The BMS unit 320 may thereby prevent a source (e.g., a battery charger) and load (such as an inverter) from overdrawing or overcharging the battery pack 300. The BMS unit 320 may monitor the remaining charge in the battery pack 300, continually tracking the amount of energy (e.g., power) entering and exiting the battery cell stacks 104 and monitoring voltages of the battery cell stacks 104. The BMS unit 320 may collect and store data indicating that the battery pack 300 is drained and shut the battery pack 300 down. The BMS unit 320 may also detect a problem (e.g., a short) in the electrical circuitry of the battery pack 300.

[0067] The battery pack 300 may also include a temperature control system (TCS) unit 325 for controlling a temperature and other environmental conditions (e.g., humidity) inside the battery pack 300. The TCS unit 325 may operate under control of the BMS unit 320. The TCS unit 325 may be mounted, for example, on an inner wall of the battery pack housing 302. The TCS unit 325 may include one or more devices for heating and cooling the battery pack 300 so as to maintain the battery cell stacks 104 within an operational temperature range. In particular, the TCS unit 325 may include one or more sensors (e.g., temperature sensors, humidity sensors, etc.), a heating unit (e.g., heating plates, resistance heaters, etc.) and/or cooling unit (e.g., cooling plates, fans, etc.).

[0068] The structure and configuration of the battery cell stacks 104 in the battery pack 300 may allow them to be conveniently removed and replaced. In at least one embodiment, the battery cell stacks 104 may have a "plug and play" structure and configuration in which the battery cell stacks 104 slide conveniently into and out of connection between the interconnects 310, battery pack wiring lines 345 and the battery pack terminals 306. This may allow the battery pack 300 to accommodate and facilitate the repurposing of battery cell stacks 104. In particular, the battery cell stacks 104 in the battery pack 300 may include one or more repurposed battery cell stacks 104 (e.g., battery cell stacks that were previously used for another purpose). [0069] As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the battery cell stacks 104 may include a plurality of different types of battery cells stacks. In particular, the battery cell stacks 104 may include one or more first battery cell stacks 104 A and one or more second battery cell stacks 104B. The first battery cell stacks 104A may have a first type and the second battery cell stacks 104B may have a second type that is different than the first type. The "type" of a battery cell stack 104 may refer to a functionality of the battery cells 103 in the battery cell stack 104, a chemical composition of the battery cells 103 in the battery cell stack 104, configuration of the battery cells 103 in the battery cell stack 104, previous use of the battery cells 103 in the battery cell stack 104, and so on. Thus, for example, the first battery cell stacks 104A may have a first chemical composition and the second battery cell stacks 104B may include a second chemical composition different than the first chemical composition. For example, the first battery cell stacks 104A may include lithium iron phosphate battery cells and the second battery cell stacks 104B may include lithium cobalt oxide battery cells. As another example, the first battery cell stacks 104 A may include lithium-ion battery cells and the second battery cell stacks 104B may include nickel cadmium battery cells.

[0070] The BMS unit 320 may monitor and track a performance of both the first type of battery cell stacks 104A and the second type of battery cell stacks 104B. The BMS unit 320 may include, for example, an architecture and wiring schematics that are standardized to accommodate the first type of battery cell stacks 104 A and the second type of battery cell stacks 104B. Thus, the configuration of the BMS unit 320 may further allow the battery pack 300 to accommodate and facilitate the repurposing of battery cell stacks 104.

[0071] FIG. 2B is a schematic view of the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300 having the first design according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the BMS unit 320 may include a management unit 122, and at least one of a current sensor 123 and/or a voltage sensor 125. The BMS unit 320 may also include cell interface circuitry 330 including the voltage sensor 125 and equalizing circuitry 126. The BMS unit 320 is one example of a management system that may be used to manage an operation of the battery pack 300. Other management systems may be within the contemplated scope of disclosure. [0072] The management unit 122 may operate with electric power supplied from the battery cells 103. The management unit 122 may include a central processing unit (CPU) 122a (e.g., microprocessor), a memory device 122b (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), etc.), a communication unit 122c (e.g., telematics unit), and the like. The memory device 122b may include ROM for storing various control programs and data indicating post-discharge open-circuit voltage (OCV) and state-of-charge (SOC) characteristics. The CPU 122a may control each part of the battery pack 300 by executing a control program stored in the ROM. The communication unit 122c may communicate (e.g., by wire or wirelessly) with an external controller that is outside the battery pack 300. In at least one embodiment, the communication unit 122c may be connected by a communication line 129 to the external controller.

[0073] In at least one embodiment, the memory device 122b may store history data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 in the battery pack 300. The history data may include, for example, including capacity history data, voltage history data, charging history data, discharging history data, etc. The memory device 122b may also store identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 in the battery pack 300. The identification data may include, for example, the type of battery cells (e.g., lithium-ion battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, nickel cadmium battery cells, etc.) in the battery cell stacks 104. The identification data may also include the date of inserting each of the battery cell stacks 104 in the battery pack 300, and whether the battery cell stack 104 is a repurposed battery cell stack 104 (e.g., a battery cell stack 104 previously used to for the same and/or different purpose for which it is being used in the battery pack 300). The identification data may also be generated by the CPU 122a which may execute software stored in the memory device 122b to generate such identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104. In particular, the CPU 122a may generate the identification data by comparing the stored history data for the battery cell stacks 104 to one or more reference tables and look-up tables stored in the memory device 122b. The CPU 122a may then control an operation of the battery pack 300 (e.g., charging operation, discharging operation, etc.) based on the identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104.

[0074] In at least one embodiment, the battery pack 300 may be included in a lighting device (e.g., solar street light, which is also referred to as a solar-powered street light). In that case, the communication unit 122c may transmit data signals to and receive data signals from a LDES unit controller for the lighting device over the communication line 129 (or wirelessly). Data signals received by the management unit 122 from the LDES unit controller may include battery pack charging instructions, battery pack discharging instructions, and the like.

[0075] The current sensor 123 may be connected to the battery cell stacks 104 (or battery cells 103) by the battery pack wiring lines 345. The current sensor 123 may measure a current value of a charge current flowing to the battery cell stacks 104 during charge, and a current value of a discharge current flowing from the battery cell stacks 104 to an electric load during discharge. The current sensor 123 may then output the measured current value to the CPU 122a of the management unit 122.

[0076] The voltage sensor 125 of the cell interface circuitry 330 may be connected to both ends of each battery cell stacks 104 (or battery cells 103). The voltage sensor 125 may measure a voltage value which is a terminal voltage of the battery cell stacks 104 (or battery cells 103) and output the measured voltage value to the CPU 122a of the management unit 122.

[0077] The equalizing circuitry 126 of the cell interface circuitry 330 may include equalizing circuits 126a in parallel connection with each of the battery cell stacks 104 (or battery cells 103). Each equalizing circuit 126a may include, for example, a switch element and a discharge resistor. When the switch element is turned on, electric power of the battery cell or stack in parallel connection with the equalizing circuit 126a may be discharged by the discharge resistor.

[0078] When the battery cells 103 of the battery cell stacks 104 are brought into a pause state, the management unit 122 may measure the open circuit voltage (OCV) with the voltage sensor 125 and estimate the state of charge (SOC) of the battery cells 103 by specifying the SOC corresponding to the measured OCV from the post-discharge OCV-SOC characteristics stored in the memory device 122b. In at least one embodiment, the management unit 122 may estimate the SOC of the battery cells 103 (e.g., execute an SOC estimation process) by first causing the equalizing circuit 126 to discharge the battery cells 103 for a predetermined time. The management unit 122 may then measure the OCV with the voltage sensor 125. The management unit 122 may then estimate the SOC of the battery cells 103 by specifying the SOC corresponding to the OCV measured from the post-discharge OCV-SOC characteristics.

[0079] FIG. 2C is a plan view of a battery pack bracket 370 in the battery pack 300 having the first design according to one or more embodiments. It should be noted that an upper section (e.g., lid) of the battery pack housing 302 and other features of the battery pack 300 (e.g., the BMS unit 320, the TCS unit 325, the battery pack wiring lines 345, interconnects 310 and battery pack terminals 306) have been omitted from FIG. 2C for ease of understanding. As illustrated in FIG. 2C, the battery pack bracket 370 may be located in the battery pack housing 302. The battery pack bracket 370 may be used to fix a position of the battery cell stacks 104 in the battery pack housing 302.

[0080] The battery pack bracket 370 may be mounted (e.g., by fasteners such as screws, bolts, etc.) to a wall of the battery pack housing 302. In at least one embodiment, the battery pack bracket 370 may be mounted to the bottom wall. The battery pack bracket 370 may include a mounting plate 372 mounted to a wall of the battery pack housing 302. The battery pack bracket 370 may also include one or more tracks 374 on the mounting plate 372. The tracks 374 may be integrally formed with the mounting plate 372 or may be connected to the mounting plate 372 by fasteners. The battery pack bracket 370 may also include bracket walls 376 that are slidably mounted on the tracks 372.

[0081] The battery pack bracket 370 may also include locking mechanisms 378 that may lock the respective bracket wall 376 in position on the respective of a plurality of tracks (or portion of a unitary track) 374. The locking mechanism 378 may include, for example, one or more spring-loaded pins on the bracket wall 376 and a plurality of positioning holes located along the length of the one or more tracks 374.

[0082] In operation, the battery cell stacks 104 may be placed on a central region of the mounting plate 372 as shown on the left side of FIG. 2C. The battery cell stacks 104 may include the first battery cell stacks 104A and second battery cells stacks 104B. The first battery cell stacks 104A and second battery cells stacks 104B may have a plurality of shapes, plurality of sizes and plurality of orientations. The spring-loaded pins may be depressed by a user to retract the pins out of the positioning holes and allow the bracket wall 376 to move slidably along the track 374. The bracket wall 376 may be pushed by the user toward the central region of the mounting place 372, contact one or more of the battery cell stacks 104 and thereby force the contacted battery cell stacks 104 toward the central region of the mounting plate 372.

[0083] After the bracket walls 376 are moved into a desirable position as shown on the right side of FIG. 2C) the spring-loaded pins may be released, so as to be forced into one or more of the positioning holes in the track 374 and fix the bracket walls 376 into position. In at least one embodiment, the spring-loaded pins may be depressed and the bracket walls 376 moved by one more electric motors, pulleys, gears, etc. under the control of the BMS unit 320 (see FIG. 2B). By pushing in the bracket walls 376 (e.g., four bracket walls 376) along all four sides of the mounting plate 372, any spaces between the battery cell stacks 104 may be minimized (e.g., eliminated) and the battery cell stacks 104 may be securely held in a fixed position by the bracket walls 376. It should be noted that thermal control plates (e.g., cooling plates) may be inserted between the battery cell stacks 104 but are omitted in FIG. 2C for ease of understanding. The battery pack bracket 370 may accommodate a plurality of types, plurality of shapes, plurality of sizes and/or plurality of orientations of the battery cell stacks 104. The battery pack bracket 370 may also accommodate multiple configurations of the battery cell stacks 104 while the BMS unit 320 maintains safe operation of the battery pack 300.

[0084] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate the battery pack 300 having a second design according a second embodiments. In particular, FIG. 3A is a plan view of the battery pack 300 having the second design. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the battery pack 300 having the second design may include a plurality of battery modules 100. The battery modules 100 are illustrated in FIG. 3 A as being arranged longitudinally in the x-direction, but the battery modules 100 may also be arranged longitudinally in the y-direction and/or the z-direction (e.g., vertically) in addition to or instead of the x-direction. The battery modules 100 are also illustrated in FIG. 3 A as being connected in series by the interconnects 310 for electrically coupling the positive terminals 106P and negative terminals 106N of the battery modules 100, but the battery modules 100 may alternatively be connected in parallel or include a combination of both series and parallel connections. The interconnects 310 may be press fit or otherwise fastened to the positive terminals 106P and negative terminals 106N of the battery modules 100. The positive battery pack terminal 306P may be connected to a positive terminal 106P at one end of the plurality of battery modules 100, and a negative battery pack terminal 306N connected to a negative terminal 106N at an opposite end of the plurality of battery modules 100.

[0085] The BMS unit 320 in the second design of the battery pack 300 may be configured to monitor and control an operation of the battery pack 300 including an operation of each of the battery modules 100. The BMS unit 320 may include a plurality of input/output (I/O) connectors 340 (e.g., RJ45 connectors) connected to the I/O ports 140 of the battery modules 100. The BMS unit 320 may be communicatively coupled to the I/O connectors 340 via the battery pack wiring lines 345. The BMS unit 320 may work cooperatively with the BMS 120 of each of the battery modules 100. In at least one embodiment, the BMS 120 may transmit cell voltage data, cell temperature data and cell balancing data to the BMS unit 320 of the battery pack 300. In at least one embodiment, the BMS unit 320 and BMS 120 may have a "master and slave" configuration in which BMS unit 320 of the battery pack 300 controls an operation of the BMS 120 in each of the battery modules 100. The BMS unit 320 may monitor the battery modules 100 (e.g., each of the battery cells 103 or stacks 104 in each of the battery modules 100) and calculate how much current can safely go in (charge) and come out (discharge) without damaging the battery pack 300. The BMS unit 320 may also monitor voltages of the battery modules 100.

[0086] The structure and configuration of the battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300 may allow them to be conveniently removed and replaced. In at least one embodiment, the battery modules 100 may have a "plug and play" structure and configuration in which the battery modules 100 slide conveniently into and out of connection between the interconnects 310, battery pack wiring lines 345 and the battery pack terminals 306. For example, referring to FIG. 3 A, the interconnects 310 and the battery pack terminals 306 may be mounted on a lid (not shown) of the battery pack 300. In that case, a battery module 100 may be removed from the battery pack 300 may simply lifting the lid to separate the interconnects 310 and the battery pack terminals 306 from the battery modules 100. This may allow the battery pack 300 to accommodate and facilitate the repurposing of battery modules 100. In particular, the battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300 may include one or more repurposed battery modules 100 (e.g., battery modules that were previously used for another purpose).

[0087] As illustrated in FIG. 3 A, the battery modules 100 may include a plurality of different types of battery modules. In particular, the battery modules 100 may include one or more first battery modules 100 A and one or more second battery modules 100B. The first battery modules 100A may have a first type and the second battery modules 100B may have a second type that is different than the first type. The "type" of a battery module 100 may refer to a functionality of the battery cells 103 in the battery module 100, a chemical composition of the battery cells 103 in the battery module 100, configuration of the battery cells 103 in the battery cell stacks 104 of the battery module 100, and so on. Thus, for example, the first battery modules 100A may have a first chemical composition and the second battery modules 100B may include a second chemical composition different than the first chemical composition. For example, the first battery modules 100 A may include lithium iron phosphate battery cells and the second battery modules 100B may include lithium cobalt oxide battery cells. As another example, the first battery modules 100A may include lithium- ion battery cells and the second battery modules 100B may include nickel cadmium battery cells.

[0088] The BMS unit 320 may monitor and track a performance of both the first type of battery modules 100A and the second type of battery modules 100B. The BMS unit 320 may include, for example, an architecture and wiring schematics that are standardized to accommodate the first type of battery modules 100A and the second type of battery modules 100B. Thus, the configuration of the BMS unit 320 may further allow the battery pack 300 to accommodate and facilitate the repurposing of battery modules 100.

[0089] FIG. 3B is a schematic view of the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300 having the second design according to one or more embodiments. The BMS unit 320 for the battery pack 300 having the second design may have a functionality similar to the BMS unit 320 for the battery pack 300 having the first design. However, since the BMS 120 of the battery modules 100 may include cell interface circuitry and functionality, the cell interface circuitry 330 (see FIG. 2B) may not be included in the BMS unit 320 for the battery pack 300 having the second design.

[0090] As illustrated in FIG. 3B, the BMS unit 320 may include the management unit 122 and the current sensor 123. The CPU 122a of the management unit 122 may receive voltage data from the BMS 120 of the battery modules 100 via the battery pack wiring lines 345. The current sensor 123 may also be connected to the battery modules 100 by the battery pack wiring lines 345. The current sensor 123 may measure a current value of a charge current flowing to the battery modules 100 during charge, and a current value of a discharge current flowing from the battery modules 100 to an electric load during discharge. The current sensor 123 may then output the measured current value to the CPU 122a of the management unit 122.

[0091] In at least one embodiment, the memory device 122b may store history data for each of the battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300. The history data may include, for example, including capacity history data, voltage history data, charging history data, discharging history data, etc. The memory device 122b may also store identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 in the battery pack 300. The identification data may include, for example, the type of battery cells (e.g., lithium-ion battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, nickel cadmium battery cells, etc.) in the battery modules 100. The identification data may also include the date of inserting each of the battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300, and whether the battery module 100 is a repurposed battery module 100 (e.g., a battery module 100 previously used to for the purpose for which it is being used in the battery pack 300). The identification data may be obtained (at least in part) from the BMS 120 in each of the battery modules 100 which may store the identification data for the battery modules 100. The identification data may also be generated by the CPU 122a which may execute software stored in the memory device 122b to generate such identification data for each of the battery modules 100. In particular, the CPU 122a may generate the identification data by comparing the stored history data for the battery module 100 to one or more reference tables and look-up tables stored in the memory device 122b. The CPU 122a may then control an operation of the battery pack 300 (e.g., charging operation, discharging operation, etc.) based on the identification data for each of the battery modules 100.

[0092] FIG. 3C is a plan view of a battery pack bracket 370 in the battery pack 300 having the second design according to one or more embodiments. The battery pack bracket 370 in the battery pack 300 having the second design may be substantially the same as the battery pack bracket 370 in the battery pack 300 having the first design (see FIG. 2C). The battery pack bracket 370 may be used to fix a position of the battery modules 100 in the battery pack housing 302.

[0093] In operation, the battery modules 100 may be placed on a central region of the mounting plate 372 as shown on the left side of FIG. 3C. The battery modules 100 may include the first battery modules 100 A and second battery modules 100B. The first battery modules 100A and second battery modules 100B may have a plurality of shapes, plurality of sizes and plurality of orientations. The spring-loaded pins may be depressed by a user to retract the pins out of the positioning holes and allow the bracket walls 376 to move slidably along the track(s) 374. The bracket walls 376 may be pushed by the user toward the central region of the mounting place 372, contact one or more of the battery modules 100 and thereby force the contacted battery modules 100 toward the central region of the mounting plate 372.

[0094] After the bracket walls 376 are moved into a desirable position as shown on the right side of FIG. 3C, the spring-loaded pins may be released, so as to be forced into one or more of the positioning holes in the track(s) 374 and fix the bracket walls 376 into position. In at least one embodiment, the spring-loaded pins may be depressed and the bracket walls 376 moved by one more electric motors, pulleys, gears, etc. under the control of the BMS unit 320 (see FIG. 3B). By pushing in the bracket walls 376 (e.g., four bracket walls 376) along all four sides of the mounting plate 372, any spaces between the battery modules 100 may be minimized (e.g., eliminated) and the battery modules 100 may be securely held in a fixed position by the bracket walls 376. It should be noted that thermal control plates (e.g., cooling plates) may be inserted between the battery modules 100 but are omitted in FIG. 3C for ease of understanding. The battery pack bracket 370 may accommodate a plurality of types, plurality of shapes, plurality of sizes and plurality of orientations of the battery modules 100. The battery pack bracket 370 may also accommodate multiple configurations of the battery cell stacks 104 while the BMS unit 320 maintains safe operation of the battery pack 300.

[0095] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a method of replacing an energy storage device (e.g., battery cell stack 104 and/or battery module 100) in the battery pack 300 according to one or more embodiments. Step 410 may include providing a battery pack including a battery pack bracket set to a first setting to accommodate a plurality of energy storage devices. Step 420 may include removing a first energy storage device from the plurality of energy storage devices. Step 430 may include inserting a second energy storage device in place of the first energy storage device into the battery pack. Step 440 may include adjusting the battery pack bracket from the first setting to a second setting different than the first setting to accommodate the second energy storage device. The first energy storage device may have a first size, a first shape and a first orientation, and the second energy storage device may have at least one of a second size different than the first size, a second shape different than the first shape, or a second orientation different than the first orientation. The method may also include locking the battery pack bracket into the second setting using a locking mechanism of the battery pack bracket.

[0096] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a lighting device 400 according to one or more embodiments. The lighting device 400 may include, for example, an exterior lighting device, such as a solar street light. A lighting device may provide lighting for outdoor areas such as streets, parking lots, parks, and building exteriors. The lighting device 400 may or may not be connected to and powered in part by an electrical power grid (e.g., a power grid maintained by an electric utility).

[0097] The lighting device 400 may include one or more light fixtures 404 (e.g., luminaires) mounted on a mounting structure 406. If the lighting device 400 is a solar street light, then it also includes at least one PV panel 408, which may also be mounted on the mounting structure 406. The mounting structure 406 may include, for example, a mounting pole, mounting wall, etc. In at least one embodiment, the mounting structure 406 may include a light pole assembly (e.g., metal light pole assembly) having one or more compartments and channels for housing various subsystems and wiring. In particular, the light pole assembly may enclose power lines (e.g., DC power lines) from the PV panel 408 and LDES unit 510 to the light fixture 404.

[0098] The light fixture 404 may include a base structure having a flat surface. A lighting device controller (not shown) that controls an operation of the lighting device 400 may be mounted on the base structure of the light fixture 404. One or more motion sensors 403 and one or more light sensors 405 (e.g., photocells for providing "dusk-to-dawn" activation) may also be mounted on the base structure of the light fixture 404.

[0099] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the lighting device 400 may also include one or more light sources 402 (e.g., lamps) that emit light. The light source 402 may be mounted, for example, on the base structure of the light fixture 404. The light source 402 may include, for example, one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), one or more halogen lamps, etc. In at least one embodiment, the light source 402 may include a 12 volt LED light source including a plurality of LEDs. Each of the LEDs may have a nominal raw output of 100 lumens/W att or more at a thermal pad temperature of 25 °C. The LEDs may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) and each LED may have a small glass lens to create an initial desired illumination pattern. A high transmittance polycarbonate layer may be located closely over the LED's.

[00100] If the lighting device 400 is a solar street light, then it also includes one or more photovoltaic (PV) panels 408. The PV panels 408 may be mounted on the mounting structure 406. The PV panels 408 may include a thin-film photovoltaic panel that converts light energy (e.g., sunlight) into direct current (DC) electrical energy. The PV panel 408 may include a plurality of PV cells (e.g., solar cells) connected in series or parallel. The PV panel 408 may be rated to have an output voltage in a range from 12V to 24V and a wattage in a range from 250 watts to 400 watts. In at least one embodiment, the PV panel 408 may operate from about 15 volts on the low end (with lower current flow at this lower voltage) up to 15% over the rated voltage and wattage. A center line of the PV panel 408 may face approximately in the direction of the Sun at its highest point in the sky and wrap about 225 degrees around the light-pole assembly to collect light in the morning and evening hours. The PV panel 408 may be covered with a protective coating, such as a layer of light- transmissive polymer.

[00101] The PV panel 408 may be mounted to the mounting structure 406 through an adjustable mounting device (not shown) including an electric motor. The adjustable mounting device may control an orientation of the PV panel 408 to ensure optimum performance of the PV panel 408.

[00102] The lighting device 400 may also include a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit 510. The LDES unit 510 may include one or more of the battery packs 300 and store energy for powering the light source 402. The battery packs 300 in the LDES unit 510 may be charged during the day by the PV panel 408. The LDES unit 510 may be located off of the mounting structure 406 (e.g., on the ground) and connected through the mounting structure 406 to the light source 402. The LDES unit 510 may alternatively be located on a LDES unit mounting bracket (not shown) mounted on the mounting structure 406.

[00103] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the lighting device 400 according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the lighting device 400 may include a charge controller 412 for controlling a charging of the battery pack 300 in the LDES unit 510 by the PV panel 408. The charge controller 412 may be mounted, for example, on the mounting structure 406. In particular, the charge controller 412 may regulate the flow of electricity from the PV panel 408 to the LDES unit 510 to ensure that the battery pack 300 is not overcharged or undercharged, which can harm the battery pack 300 and reduce its lifespan. [00104] In at least one embodiment, the charge controller 412 may also perform maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in which the power from the PV panel 408 is optimized by matching the voltage and current of the PV panel 408 with the battery pack 300. The charge controller 412 may also perform a disconnect operation in which the PV panel 408 is disconnected from the LDES unit 510 when the battery pack 300 is fully charged to prevent overcharging. The charge controller 412 may also perform a low voltage disconnect in which a load (e.g., the light source 402) in the lighting device 400 is disconnected from the LDES unit 510 when the voltage drops to a pre-determined level, to prevent deep discharge and damage to the battery pack 300. The charge controller 412 may also perform load control in which the connection of the load to the LDES unit 510 is controlled depending on a voltage and state of charge of the battery pack 300.

[00105] The lighting device 400 may also include a lighting device controller 414 that controls an overall operation and performance of the lighting device 400. The lighting device controller 414 may regulate an operation of the light source 402 to minimize energy consumption, adjust a brightness of the light source 402, schedule when the light source 402 should be turned on and off, etc. The lighting device controller 414 may be mounted on the base structure of the light fixture 404 along with the light source 402, motion sensor 403 and light sensor 405. The lighting device controller 414 may include for example, a microcontroller including a processor 414a (central processing unit (CPU)) and a memory device 414b (e.g., read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), etc.). The memory device 414b may store overall history data and performance data for the lighting device 400. The memory device 414b may also store one or more software programs for controlling an operation in the lighting device 400. The processor 414a may access the memory device 414b to execute the software programs and control the operation of the lighting device 400 based on the history data, performance data, etc. In particular, the processor 414a in the lighting device controller 414 may control an operation of the LDES unit 510, charge controller 412, light source 402, motion sensor 403 and light sensor 405. The lighting device controller 414 may also control an operation of an adjustable mounting device (not shown) that may control an orientation of the PV panel 408.

[00106] The lighting device controller 414 may also include a communications unit 414c for allowing the lighting device controller 414 to communicate (e.g., under the control of the processor 414a; via a wired or wireless connection) an operating status of the lighting device 400. The communication unit 414c may also allow the lighting device 400 to be remotely managed by a user. In at least one embodiment, the lighting device controller 414 may be connected through the communications unit 414c to an external server or external network, such as the Internet and may access the Cloud via the connection. A user may monitor (e.g., remotely monitor) a performance of the lighting device 400 and/or manage an operation of the lighting device 400 by way of communications unit 414c in the lighting device controller 414.

[00107] In operation, the PV panel 408 may transmit DC electrical energy to the charge controller 412 via a DC power line 450a. The charge controller 412 may transmit DC electrical energy to the LDES unit 510 via a DC power line 450b for charging the battery pack 300 in the LDES unit 510. The LDES unit 510 may also transmit DC electrical energy to the charge controller 412 via the DC power line 450b for providing power in the lighting device 400. Alternatively, the LDES unit 510 may transmit DC electrical energy to the charge controller 412 via a separate DC power line (not shown).

[00108] The charge controller 412 may distribute electrical power to the light source 402 via power line 450c and to the lighting device controller 414 via power line 450d. It should be noted that power inverters or converters (not shown) may be included as needed for providing electrical power from the charge controller 412 to the light source 402 and lighting device controller 414. Power to the motion sensor 403 and the light sensor 405 may be transmitted from the charge controller 412 through the lighting device controller 414. In particular, the lighting device controller 414 may power the motion sensor 403 and the light sensor 405 via power lines 450e and 450f, respectively.

[00109] The lighting device controller 414 may be communicatively coupled to the charge controller 412 via data line 462a through which the lighting device controller 414 may control an operation of the charge controller 412. The lighting device controller 414 may also receive a motion sensing signal from the motion sensor 403 via data line 462b. The lighting device controller 414 may also receive a light sensing signal from the light sensor 405 via data line 462c. The lighting device controller 414 may also be communicatively coupled to the LDES unit 510 via data line 462d. The lighting device controller 414 may monitor and/or control an operation of the LDES unit 510 via the data line 462d. It should be noted that each of the LDES unit 510, charge controller 412, motion sensor 403 and light sensor 405 may also be equipped with a wireless transceiver, so that each of the data lines 462a, 462b, 462c and 462d may be replaced with a wireless connection from the wireless transceivers. [00110] During the day, the PV panel 408 may convert sunlight into electrical energy that is transmitted to the charge controller 412. The charge controller 412 may transmit the electrical energy from the PV panel 408 to the LDES unit 510 to charge the battery pack 300. The battery pack 300 may store electrical energy until directed to discharge power (i.e., current) to the light source 402 by the lighting device controller 414.

[00111] The lighting device controller 414 may control the manner and timing of discharging by the battery pack 300 in the LDES unit 510 for powering the light source 402. The lighting device controller 414 may control the discharging of the battery pack 300 based (at least in part) on the motion sensing signal from the motion sensor 403 and the light sensing signal from the light sensor 405. The lighting device controller 414 may also control the discharging of the battery pack 300 based on various algorithms (e.g., energy-saving algorithms) of software applications stored in the memory device of the lighting device controller 414). Such algorithms may take into account, for example, the charged state of the battery pack 300, the light sensing signal, the motion sensing signal, etc. A user may also remotely update and/or manipulate the algorithms by the wireless connection to the lighting device controller 414.

[00112] FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the LDES unit 510 according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the LDES unit 510 may include a LDES unit housing 502 and one or more battery packs 300 housed in the LDES unit housing 502. The LDES unit 510 may also include a LDES unit controller 520 for controlling an operation of the LDES unit 510 and in particular an operation of the battery pack 300. The LDES unit 510 may also include a TCS 525 (e.g., fan or cooling coil) that may regulate a temperature and other environmental conditions in the LDES unit housing 502 under control of the LDES unit controller 520. The LDES unit 510 may also include a LDES unit bracket 570 that may secure the battery pack 300 and fix a position of the battery pack 300 in the LDES unit housing 502.

[00113] The LDES unit housing 302 may be mounted, for example, on a side of the mounting structure 406 of the lighting device 400 (see FIG. 5). The LDES unit housing 502 may have a construction similar to the construction of the battery pack housing 302 described above. In particular, the LDES unit housing 502 may have a substantially cuboid shape including a box-shaped case body (back section) with a door (front section). A door or access panel may be connected to the box-shaped case body, for example, by one or more hinges. The view of FIG. 7 is a view from the front into the back section with the door or access panel omitted for ease of understanding. The LDES unit housing 502 may include walls formed, for example, of a rigid material such as a metal, ceramic or polymer material. [00114] The LDES unit 510 may further include LDES unit terminals 506 connected to the battery pack 300. The LDES unit terminals 506 may include a positive LDES unit terminal 506P connected (e.g., electrically connected) to the positive battery pack terminal 306P, and a negative LDES unit terminal 506N connected (e.g., electrically connected) to the negative battery pack terminal 306N. The positive LDES unit terminal 506P may be connected to the LDES unit controller 520 by positive LDES unit wiring line 545P. The negative LDES unit terminal 506N may be connected to the LDES unit controller 520 by negative LDES unit wiring line 545N. The positive LDES unit terminal 506P and the negative LDES unit terminal 506N may be similar in construction to the battery pack terminals 306 of the battery pack 300.

[00115] The LDES unit bracket 570 may be similar in construction to the battery pack bracket 370 in the battery pack 300. The LDES unit bracket 570 may be used to fix a position of the battery pack 300 in the LDES unit housing 502. The LDES unit bracket 570 may be mounted (e.g., by fasteners such as screws, bolts, etc.) to a wall of the LDES unit housing 502. In at least one embodiment, the LDES unit bracket 570 may be mounted to the bottom wall of the LDES unit housing 502. The LDES unit bracket 570 may include a mounting plate 572 mounted to the sidewall of the LDES unit housing 502. The LDES unit bracket 570 may also include one or more tracks 574 on the mounting plate 572. One of the tracks 574 may be located on each of the four sides (in the x-y plane) of the mounting plate 572. The tracks 574 may be integrally formed with the mounting plate 572 or may be connected to the mounting plate 572 by fasteners. The LDES unit bracket 570 may also include bracket walls 576 that are slidably mounted on the tracks 572.

[00116] The LDES unit bracket 570 may also include a locking mechanism 578 that may lock the bracket wall 576 in position on the track(s) 574. The locking mechanism 578 may include, for example, one or more spring-loaded pins on the bracket wall 576 and a plurality of positioning holes located along the length of the track(s) 574. An operation of the LDES unit bracket 570 may be similar to the operation of the battery pack bracket 370 described above.

[00117] In a case where the LDES unit 510 includes more than one battery packs 300, the LDES unit bracket 570 may be used to fix a position of all of the battery packs 300. In that case, thermal control plates (e.g., cooling plates) may be inserted between the battery packs 300. The LDES unit bracket 570 may accommodate a plurality of types, plurality of shapes, plurality of sizes and plurality of orientations of the battery packs 300. The LDES unit bracket 570 may also accommodate multiple configurations of the battery packs 300 while the LDES unit controller 520 (e.g., in cooperation with the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300) maintains safe operation of the LDES unit 510.

[00118] The TCS unit 525 may operate under control of the LDES unit controller 520 via the TCS data line 525a. The TCS unit 525 may be mounted, for example, on an inner sidewall of the LDES unit housing 502. The TCS unit 525 may include one or more devices for heating and cooling the LDES unit 510 so as to maintain the LDES unit 510 within an operational temperature range. In particular, the TCS unit 525 may include one or more sensors (e.g., temperature sensors, humidity sensors, etc.), a heating unit (e.g., heating plates, resistance heaters, etc.) and/or cooling unit (e.g., cooling plates, fans, etc.).

[00119] The LDES unit controller 520 may be connected to the DC power line 450b and control a transmission of DC electrical energy to and from the battery pack 300. The LDES unit controller 520 may also include a first I/O port 520al communicatively coupled to the external I/O port 320a of the BMS unit 320 of the battery pack 300 via the optional communication line 329. The LDES unit controller 520 may transmit data signals to and receive data signals from the BMS unit 320 of the battery pack 300 via the communication line 329. In at least one embodiment, the LDES unit controller 520 and the BMS unit 320 of the battery pack 300 may have a master-slave configuration in which the LDES unit controller 520 (master) may control an operation of the BMS unit 320 (slave).

[00120] The LDES unit controller 520 may also include a second I/O port 520a2 communicatively coupled to the data line 462d. The LDES unit controller 520 may serve as an interface between the lighting device controller 414 in the lighting device 400 and the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300. In at least one embodiment, the lighting device controller 414 and the LDES unit controller 520 may have a master-slave configuration in which the lighting device controller 414 (master) may control an operation of the LDES unit controller 520 (slave). In at least one embodiment, the lighting device controller 414 may control an operation of the BMS unit 320 of the battery pack 300 through the LDES unit controller 520.

[00121] The LDES unit controller 520 may transmit charge and discharge status information to the lighting device controller 414 via the data line 462d. The LDES unit controller 520 may also transmit information regarding a status (e.g., capacity) of the battery pack 300 to the lighting device controller 414 via the data line 462d. It should be noted that while the data lines 329 and 462d may be described above as wired connections, the lines 329 and 462d may be replaced by wireless data connections.

[00122] The LDES unit controller 520 may also include a third I/O port 520a3 communicatively coupled via a wireless connection to one or more devices that may be located remotely from the lighting device 400. In at least one embodiment, the LDES unit controller 520 may be connected through the third TO port 520a3 to an external server or external network such as the Internet and may access the Cloud via the connection. A user may monitor (e.g., remotely monitor) a performance of the LDES unit 510 and/or manage an operation of the LDES unit 510 by way of the wireless connection. The user may send data to the LDES unit controller 520 and receive data from the LDES unit controller 520 via the wireless connection. The LDES unit controller 520 may also include an antenna 580 connected to the third I/O port 520a3 for facilitating the wireless connection.

[00123] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of the LDES unit controller 520 according to one or more embodiments. The LDES unit controller 520 may be serve as an interface between the LDES unit 510 and the other elements of the lighting device 400. In particular, the LDES unit controller 520 may be serve as an interface between the BMS unit 320 of the battery pack 300 and the lighting device controller 414 of the lighting device 400.

[00124] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the LDES unit controller 520 may include a management unit 522. The management unit 522 may include a processor or central processing unit (CPU) 522a (e.g., microprocessor), a memory device 522b (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), etc.), a telematics unit 522c (e.g., communication unit), and the like. The CPU 522a may be connected to the TCS unit 525 via the data line 525a or via a wireless data connection, and thereby control an operation of the TCS unit 525.

[00125] The management unit 522 may monitor and manage a performance of the battery pack 300 by collecting, storing and monitoring data pertaining to performance of the battery pack 300. Such data may include, for example, energy capacity (e.g., the total amount of energy that can be stored in the battery pack 300), power rating (e.g., the maximum power output of the battery pack 300), depth of discharge (e.g., the percentage of the total energy capacity that has been used), charge/discharge efficiency (e.g., the percentage of energy that is retained by the battery pack 300 during charging and discharging cycles), cycle life (e.g., the number of times the battery pack 300 can be charged and discharged before its capacity begins to degrade), self-discharge rate (e.g., the rate at which the battery pack 300 loses its charge when not in use), temperature performance (e.g., the performance of the battery pack 300 under different temperatures), voltage (e.g., the voltage of the battery pack 300 during different states of charge), state of charge (e.g., the charge level of the battery pack 300 at any point of time), and state of health (e.g., the health status of the battery pack 300 over time).

[00126] The LDES unit controller 520 may also include electrical devices 540 that are connected to the positive LDES unit wiring line 545P and negative LDES unit terminal 506N that are connected to the battery pack 300. The electrical devices 540 may serve as an interface between the DC power line 450b on one side, and the positive LDES unit wiring line 545P and negative LDES unit terminal 506N on the other side. The electrical devices 540 may be controlled by the CPU 522a. The electrical devices 540 may include, for example, devices such as electrical relays, electrical fuses and/or DC/DC converters that may be controlled by the CPU 522a. In particular, the CPU 522a may control charging and discharging operations of the battery pack 300 by controlling the electrical devices 540. The electrical devices 540 may thereby ensure a safe operation of the LDES unit 510 (e.g., preventing overcharging and over discharging of the battery pack 300).

[00127] The memory device 522b may include ROM for storing various control programs for controlling a charging operation and a discharging operation of the battery pack 300 in cooperation with the BMS unit 320. The memory device 522b may also include RAM for storing battery pack charging and discharging data (e.g., history data, performance data, etc.). [00128] In at least one embodiment, the memory device 522b may store history data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100 (e.g., energy storage devices) in the battery pack 300. The history data may include, for example, including capacity history data, voltage history data, charging history data, discharging history data, etc. The memory device 522b may also store identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300. The identification data may include, for example, the type of battery cells (e.g., lithium-ion battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, nickel cadmium battery cells, etc.) in the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100. The identification data may also include the date of inserting each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300, and whether the battery cell stack 104 and/or battery module 100 is a repurposed battery cell stack 104 and/or repurposed battery module 100 (e.g., a battery cell stack 104 and/or battery module 100 previously used for the same or different purpose for which it is being used in the battery pack 300). The identification data may be obtained from the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300 which may store the identification data. The LDES unit controller 520 may also regularly (e.g., periodically) and/or automatically request updated identification data from the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300 to update the identification data stored in the memory device 522b. [00129] The identification data may also be generated by the CPU 522a which may execute software stored in the memory device 522b to generate such identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100. In particular, the CPU 522a may generate the identification data by comparing the stored history data for the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100 to one or more reference tables and look-up tables stored in the memory device 522b. The CPU 522a may then control an operation of the battery pack 300 (e.g., charging operation, discharging operation, etc.) based on the identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100. [00130] The telematics unit 522c may include a wireless transceiver for wirelessly communicating with an external device (e.g., remote device) over a wireless network (e.g., cellular, WiFi, bluetooth, etc.). The telematics unit 522c may be connected, for example, to the antenna 580 (see FIG. 7) to help facilitate the wireless connection. The telematics unit 522c may be communicatively coupled via the wireless connection to an external server or external network such as the Internet. The telematics unit 522c may allow the LDES unit controller 520 to access the Cloud via the wireless connection. The telematics unit 522c may also be communicatively coupled to the BMS unit 320 via the communication line 329. The telematics unit 522c may transmit data signals to the BMS unit 320 (e.g., battery pack charging instructions, battery pack discharging instructions, etc.) and receive data signals from the BMS unit 320 via the communication line 329. The telematics unit 522c may also be communicatively coupled to the lighting device controller 414 by the data line 462d. The telematics unit 522c may allow the LDES unit controller 520 to coordinate charging and discharging operations for the battery pack 300 with the lighting device controller 414 via the data line 462d.

[00131] FIG. 9 is a plan view of the LDES unit bracket 570 in the LDES unit 510 according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the bracket walls 576 may have different configurations. In particular, in one configuration, the bracket wall 576 may wrap around a comer of the battery pack 300 on opposing sides of the bracket wall 576. In another configuration, the bracket wall 576 may have a substantially planar configuration and may have a length (e.g., in the x-direction) less than a length of the battery pack 300 in the x- direction.

[00132] In operation, the battery pack 300 (or two or more battery packs 300) may be placed on a central region of the mounting plate 572. The battery packs 300 may have a plurality of shapes, plurality of sizes and plurality of orientations. The spring-loaded pins in the locking mechanism 578 may be depressed by a user to retract the pins out of the positioning holes of the locking mechanism 578 and allow the bracket wall 576 to move slidably along the track(s) 574. The bracket wall 576 may be pushed by the user toward the central region of the mounting place 572, contact one or more of the battery packs 300 and thereby force the contacted battery pack 300 toward the central region of the mounting plate 572.

[00133] After the bracket walls 576 are moved into a desirable position, the spring-loaded pins may be released, so as to be forced into one or more of the positioning holes in the track(s) 574 and fix the bracket walls 576 into position. In at least one embodiment, the spring-loaded pins may be depressed and the bracket walls 576 moved by one more electric motors, pulleys, gears, etc. under the control of the LDES unit controller 520 (see FIG. 8). By pushing in the bracket walls 576 (e.g., four bracket walls 576) along all four sides of the mounting plate 572, any spaces between the battery packs 300 may be minimized (e.g., eliminated) and the battery packs 300 may be securely held in a fixed position by the bracket walls 576. It should be noted that thermal control plates (e.g., cooling plates) may also be inserted between the battery packs 300. The LDES unit bracket 570 may accommodate a plurality of types, plurality of shapes, plurality of sizes and plurality of orientations of the battery packs 300. The LDES unit bracket 570 may also accommodate multiple configurations of the battery packs 300 while the LDES unit controller 520 maintains safe operation of the LDES unit 510.

[00134] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method of replacing the battery pack 300 in the LDES unit 510, according to one or more embodiments. Step 1010 may include removing the battery pack from the LDES unit housing. Step 1020 may include inserting a replacement battery pack into the LDES unit housing. Step 1030 may include adjusting the adjustable LDES unit bracket from a first setting configured to accommodate the battery pack having a first size, a first shape and a first orientation to a second setting different than the first setting to accommodate the replacement battery pack having at least one of a second size different than the first size, a second shape different than the first shape, or a second orientation different than the first orientation. Step 1040 may include locking the adjustable LDES unit bracket into the second setting using a locking mechanism of the adjustable LDES unit bracket.

[00135] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a lighting system 1100 according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the lighting system 1100 may include one or more lighting devices 400. In at least one embodiment, the lighting system 1100 may include a solar lighting system including one or more solar lighting devices. [00136] The lighting devices 400 in the lighting system 1100 may be connected to each other via a wired or wireless connection between the telematics units 522c in each of the lighting devices 400. The lighting system 1100 may also include a central controller 1120 that may individually and/or collectively control all of the lighting devices 400 in the lighting system 1100. The lighting devices 400 and central controller 1120 may each be connected via a wired or wireless connection to a network 1200 such as the Internet and may each access the Cloud via the connection. The lighting devices 400 may be communicatively coupled to the central controller 1120 via the network 1200.

[00137] The central controller 1120 may be provide automated monitoring and management of the lighting devices 400 in the lighting system 1100. The central controller 1120 may also be connected to a monitor 1190 and input device 1195 (e.g., keyboard, mouse, etc.) for allowing a user to direct an operation in the central controller 1120. A user may use the monitor 1190 and input device 1195 to monitor and manage the lighting devices 400 in the lighting system 1100.

[00138] The central controller 1120 can be used to (collectively or individually) turn the lighting devices 400 on and off, adjust the brightness of the lighting devices 400 (collectively or individually), schedule a time when the lighting devices 400 (collectively or individually) should be active, etc. The central controller 1120 may also have the ability to monitor and diagnose issues with the lighting devices 400, such as detecting a malfunctioning light source 402 (e.g., burnt-out bulb). The central controller 1120 may also use algorithms and sensors to optimize energy consumption and adjust the lighting devices 400 (collectively or individually) based on weather conditions, such as overcast skies or heavy rain. This can help to ensure that the lighting devices 400 are always providing optimal visibility while also reducing energy costs.

[00139] In at least one embodiment, the central controller 1120 may include a management unit similar to the management unit 522 in the LDES unit controller 520 (see FIG. 8). In particular, the central controller 1120 may include a processor (e.g., CPU), a memory device (e.g., RAM, ROM, etc.) and telematics unit). The central controller 1120 may be programmed to periodically access the LDES unit controllers 520 in each of the LDES units 510 of the lighting devices 400. The central controller 1120 may use this periodic access to collect data from each of the lighting devices 400 and store the collected data in the memory device. The data collected and stored by the central controller 1120 may be substantially the same as the data collected and stored by the LDES unit controller 520. The central controller 1120 may include repurposing software (e.g., stored in the memory device) that utilizes the data collected and stored in the memory device to manage and direct a repurposing operation in which battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and battery packs 300 are repurposed into and out of the lighting system 1100.

[00140] In particular, the central controller 1120 may store the data in a repurposing database that indicates a performance of repurposed battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and battery packs 300 in the lighting system 1100. The repurposing database may also include history data and performance data for the battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and/or battery packs 300 in each of the lighting devices 400. Tn particular, the repurposing database may include dates that repurposed battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and battery packs 300 were added to the lighting devices 400, a description of the previous uses of the repurposed battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and battery packs 300. The repurposing database may also include dates that battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and battery packs 300 were removed from the lighting devices 400, and a description of how the removed battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and battery packs 300 were later repurposed after the removal.

[00141] The central controller 1120 may also execute the repurposing software to (e.g., utilizing the data in the repurposing database) recommend repurposing actions to take in the lighting system 1100. In particular, the central controller 1120 may recommend dates for removing and replacing battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and/or battery packs 300 in the lighting system 1100, recommend a manner of repurposing the removed battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and/or battery packs 300, recommend a source of replacement battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and/or battery packs 300, and so on.

[00142] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of the lighting device 400 having a first alternative design according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the first alternative design of the lighting device 400 may be substantially the same as the design illustrated in FIG. 5. However, the lighting device 400 in the first alternative design may be a portable lighting device.

[00143] In particular, the lighting device 400 in the first alternative design may include a wheeled structure 1200, such as a trailer, cart, truck, transporter, etc. The wheeled structure 1200 may include a deck 1201 (e.g., metal platform, bed, plate, etc.), and the LDES unit 510 and mounting structure 406 may be mounted on the deck 1201. The wheeled structure 1200 may also include two or more wheels 1202 attached to the deck 1201 and one or more axles (not shown) connecting the wheels 1202 on opposing sides of the deck 1201. [00144] In at least one embodiment, the wheeled structure 1200 may be self-propelled and include an engine, drive train, etc. (not shown) which may be used to propel the wheeled structure 1200. The wheeled structure 1200 may alternatively or additionally include a hitch 1203 attached (directly or indirectly) to the deck 1201. The wheeled structure 1200 may conveniently transported by a vehicle (car, truck, etc.) attached to the hitch 1203.

[00145] As further illustrated in FIG. 12, the light fixture 404 in the lighting device 400 in the first alternative design may include a base structure (e.g., bar, bracket, etc.) and a plurality of the light sources 402 mounted on the base structure. The base structure may include a flat surface and a lighting device controller (not shown) that controls an operation of the lighting device 400 may be mounted on the flat surface of the base structure of the light fixture 404. The motion sensors 403 and light sensors 405 may also be mounted on the base structure of the light fixture 404.

[00146] One or more light sources 402 (e.g., lamps) may also be mounted on the base structure of the light fixture 404. The light source 402 may be substantially similar to the light source 402 described above with respect to FIG. 6. In at least one embodiment, the light source 402 may be a connected to the base structure by an adjustable bracket 407. The adjustable bracket 407 may allow the light source 402 to be conveniently directed in a plurality of different directions.

[00147] FIG. 13A is a schematic illustration of an electrical device 1300 according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 13 A, the electrical device 1300 may be substantially similar to the lighting device 400 having the design in FIG. 5 and substantially similar to the lighting device 1200 having the first alternative design in FIG. 12. However, the electrical device 1300 may have a broader purpose and function than the lighting device 400. In particular, it should be noted that the principles of the present disclosure may be applicable to any electrically powered device or structure, and not limited to only a lighting device 400.

[00148] As illustrated in FIG. 13 A, the electrical device 1300 may include the wheeled structure 1200 as described above with respect to the first alternative design of the lighting device 400 (see FIG. 12). Alternatively, the electrical device 1300 may have a design similar to the original design of the lighting device 400 which may not include the wheeled structure 1200 (see FIG. 5).

[00149] As further illustrated in FIG. 13 A, the electrical device 1300 may also include one or more items of electrical equipment such as a display 1302 mounted on the mounting structure 406. In at least one embodiment, the electrical device 1300 may include the display 1302 in addition to the light source 402 (e.g., see FIGS 5 and 12). The display 1302 may include any type of electrically powered display such as a LED display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), etc. In at least one embodiment, the electrical device 1300 may be used for traffic control purposes and the display 1302 may be used to display traffic control directions, warnings, etc. The optional motion sensor 403 and light sensor 405 may be mounted, for example, on the display 1302 or on a base structure attached to the display 1302.

[00150] The electrical device 1300 may include an electrical device energy storage

(EDES) unit 1310. The display 1 02 may be powered by the EDES unit 1310 or by the PV panel 408. The EDES unit 1310 may be substantially the same as the LDES unit 510 described above and illustrated in FIG. 5. In particular, the EDES unit 1310 may include an EDES unit housing substantially similar to LDES unit housing 502. The EDES unit 1310 may also include the battery pack 300 in the EDES unit housing. The EDES unit 1310 may also include an EDES unit bracket substantially the same as the LDES unit bracket 570 for securing the battery pack 300 and fixing a position of the battery pack 300 in the EDES unit housing (e.g., see FIG. 9).

The EDES unit 1310 may also include an EDES unit controller substantially the same as the LDES unit controller 520 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 8. The EDES unit controller may control an operation of the EDES unit 1310.

[00151] The battery pack 300 in the EDES unit 1310 may also be replaced in a manner substantially similar to the manner described above for the LDES unit 510 and illustrated, for example, in FIG. 10. In particular, the battery pack 300 may be removed from the EDES unit housing. A replacement battery pack 300 may be inserted into the EDES unit housing. The adjustable EDES unit bracket may be adjusted from a first setting configured to accommodate the battery pack 300 having a first size, a first shape and a first orientation to a second setting different than the first setting to accommodate the replacement battery pack 300 having at least one of a second size different than the first size, a second shape different than the first shape, or a second orientation different than the first orientation. The adjustable EDES unit bracket may then be locked into the second setting using a locking mechanism of the adjustable EDES unit bracket.

[00152] FIG. 13B is a block diagram of the electrical device 1300 according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 13B, the block diagram for the electrical device 1300 may be substantially similar to the block diagram for the lighting device 400 in FIG. 6. The electrical device 1300 may operate in a manner similar to the manner of operation of the lighting device 400. [00153] As illustrated in FIG. 13B, the electrical device 1300 may include the charge controller 412 for controlling a charging of the battery pack 300 in the EDES unit 1310, performing MPPT, performing a disconnect operation, performing a low voltage disconnect and load control. The electrical device 1300 may also include an electrical device controller 1314 (e.g., microcontroller) substantially similar to the lighting device controller 414 in the lighting device 400. The electrical device controller 1314 may be mounted on the base structure of the display 1304 along with the optional motion sensor 403 and light sensor 405. The electrical device controller 1314 may control an overall operation and performance of the electrical device 1300. In particular, the electrical device controller 1314 may regulate an operation of the display 1302 to minimize energy consumption, adjust a brightness of the display 1302, schedule when the display 1302 should be turned on and off, etc. The electrical device controller 1314 may also be remotely managed by a user through the communications unit 414c, and may be connected through the communications unit 414c to an external server or external network, such as the Internet and may access the Cloud via the connection.

[00154] FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of an electrical device 1300 having a first alternative design according to one or more embodiments. The electrical device 1300 having the first alternative design may be substantially similar to the electrical device 1300 having the design in FIGS. 13A and 13B. However, the electrical device may include one or more other items of electrical equipment such as a camera 1305, in addition to or instead of the display 1302. In at least one embodiment, the electrical device 1300 may include the camera 1305 in addition to the light source 402 (e.g., see FIGS. 5 and 12). The camera 1305 may be mounted to the mounting structure 406 in a manner similar to the manner of mounting the display 1304. The camera 1305 may include any type of camera such as a still camera, video camera, thermal imaging camera (e.g., infrared camera), etc.

[00155] FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of an electrical device 1300 having a second alternative design according to one or more embodiments. The electrical device 1300 having the second alternative design may be substantially similar to the electrical device 1300 having the design in FIGS. 13A and 13B and the electrical device 1300 having the first alternative design in FIG. 14. However, the electrical device may include one or more other items of electrical equipment, such as a sensor array 1306 in addition to or instead of the display 1302 and/or the camera 1305. In at least one embodiment, the electrical device 1300 may include the sensor array 1306 in addition to the light source 402 (e.g., see FIGS. 5 and 12). The sensor array 1306 may be mounted to the mounting structure 406 in a manner similar to the manner of mounting the display 1302 and/or the manner of mounting the camera 1305. The sensor array 1306 may include one or more types of sensors such as sound sensors, temperature sensors, light sensors, motion sensors, pressure sensors, proximity sensors, gas sensors, image sensors (e.g., video sensors), etc.

[00156] The preceding description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the following claims and the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

1. A lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit, comprising: a LDES unit housing; a battery pack in the LDES unit housing, comprising: a battery pack housing; a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types located in the battery pack housing; and a battery management system (BMS) unit electrically coupled to the plurality of energy storage devices and configured to manage an operation of the plurality of energy storage devices.

2. The LDES unit of claim 1 , further comprising a LDES unit controller communicatively coupled to the BMS unit of the battery pack and configured to control an operation of the LDES unit.

3. The LDES unit of claim 2, wherein the LDES unit controller is configured to control a discharging operation of the battery pack to power a light source of a solar lighting device, and to control a charging operation of the battery pack by a photovoltaic (PV) panel of the solar lighting device.

4. The LDES unit of claim 3, wherein the LDES unit controller comprises: a first input/output (I/O) port configured to communicatively couple the LDES unit controller to the BMS unit of the battery pack; a second TO port configured to communicatively couple the LDES unit controller to a lighting device controller of the solar lighting device; and a telematics unit communicatively coupled through the first I/O port to the BMS unit of the battery pack, and through the second I/O port to the lighting device controller of the solar lighting device.

5. The LDES unit of claim 2, further comprising a temperature control system configured to monitor and control a temperature in the LDES unit housing, wherein the temperature control system is configured to be controlled by the LDES unit controller. 6. The LDES unit of claim 2, wherein the LDES unit controller comprises: electrical devices comprising at least one of electrical relays, DC/DC converters or electrical fuses; and wiring connecting the electrical devices to the battery pack.

7. The LDES unit of claim 1, wherein the plurality of energy storage devices comprises at least one of new battery cell stacks, new battery modules, repurposed battery cell stacks or repurposed battery modules.

8. The LDES unit of claim 1 , further comprising an adjustable LDES unit bracket configured to fix a position of the battery pack in the LDES unit housing, wherein the adjustable LDES unit bracket includes a locking mechanism configured to lock a configuration of the LDES unit bracket and to accommodate at least one of a plurality of shapes, a plurality of sizes or a plurality of orientations of the battery pack.

9. The LDES unit of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of different types of energy storage devices in the battery pack comprises a first type of energy storage device having a first chemical composition and a second type of energy storage device having a second chemical composition different than the first chemical composition.

10. The LDES unit of claim 9, wherein: the BMS unit monitors and tracks a performance of the first type of energy storage device and the second type of energy storage device; and the BMS unit comprises an architecture and wiring schematics that are standardized to accommodate the first type of energy storage device and the second type of energy storage device.

11. The LDES unit of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of energy storage devices comprises at least one of new battery cell stacks and new battery modules, or repurposed battery cell stacks and repurposed battery modules.

12. The LDES unit of claim 1, wherein the battery pack further comprises an adjustable battery pack bracket configured to fix a position of the plurality of energy storage devices in the battery pack housing, wherein the adjustable battery pack bracket includes a locking mechanism configured to lock a configuration of the battery pack bracket and to accommodate at least one of a plurality of shapes, a plurality of sizes or a plurality of orientations of the plurality of energy storage devices.

13. The LDES unit of claim 12, wherein the plurality of energy storage devices comprises a plurality of battery cell stacks, and the adjustable battery pack bracket accommodates multiple configurations of the plurality of battery cell stacks while maintaining safe operation of the battery pack.

14. The LDES unit of claim 12, wherein the plurality of energy storage devices comprises a plurality of battery modules, and the adjustable battery pack bracket accommodates multiple configurations of the plurality of battery modules while maintaining safe operation of the battery pack.

15. A method of replacing a battery pack in the LDES unit of claim 12, the method comprising: removing the battery pack from the LDES unit housing; inserting a replacement battery pack into the LDES unit housing; adjusting the adjustable LDES unit bracket from a first setting configured to accommodate the battery pack having a first size, a first shape and a first orientation to a second setting different than the first setting to accommodate the replacement battery pack having at least one of a second size different than the first size, a second shape different than the first shape, or a second orientation different than the first orientation; and locking the adjustable LDES unit bracket into the second setting using a locking mechanism of the adjustable LDES unit bracket.

16. A lighting device, comprising: a light source; a lighting device controller configured to control an operation of the light source; and a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit configured to store energy to power the light source, wherein the LDES unit comprises: a battery pack including a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types; and a LDES unit controller communicatively coupled to the lighting device controller and the battery pack and configured to control an operation of the LDES unit.

17. The lighting device of claim 16, wherein: the lighting device further comprises a photovoltaic (PV) panel configured to convert light into a DC electrical current; and the LDES unit controller is configured to control a discharging operation of the battery pack to power the light source, and to control a charging operation of the battery pack by the PV panel.

18. The lighting device of claim 17, wherein: the LDES unit further comprises a LDES unit housing and the battery pack is located in the LDES unit housing; and the battery pack further comprises: a battery pack housing, wherein the plurality of energy storage devices is located in the battery pack housing; and a battery management system (BMS) unit electrically coupled to the plurality of energy storage devices and configured to manage an operation of the plurality of energy storage devices, wherein the LDES unit controller is communicatively coupled to the BMS unit of the battery pack.

19. The lighting device of claim 16, wherein the LDES unit controller comprises: a memory device configured to store history data and performance data of the LDES unit; a processor configured to access the memory device and control an operation of the LDES unit based on the history data and performance data; and a telematics unit configured to communicatively couple the LDES unit controller to a BMS unit of a battery pack in the LDES unit.

20. The lighting device of claim 19, wherein the LDES unit controller is configured to control a discharging operation of the battery pack to power a light source of a solar lighting device, and to control a charging operation of the battery pack by a photovoltaic (PV) panel of the solar lighting device. 21. An electrical device, comprising: an electrical equipment; an electrical device controller configured to control an operation of the electrical equipment; and an electrical device energy storage (EDES) unit configured to store energy to power the electrical equipment, wherein the EDES unit comprises: a battery pack including a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types; and an EDES unit controller communicatively coupled to the electrical device controller and the battery pack and configured to control an operation of the EDES unit.

22. The electrical device of claim 21, wherein the electrical equipment comprises at least one of a display, a camera or a sensor.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

FIELD

BACKGROUND

SUMMARY

[0006] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit may include a LDES unit housing, a battery pack in the LDES unit housing,

- 1 - including a battery pack housing, a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types located in the battery pack housing, and a battery management system (BMS) unit electrically coupled to the plurality of energy storage devices and configured to manage an operation of the plurality of energy storage devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. IB is a vertical cross-sectional view of a battery cell stack according to one or more embodiments.

- 2 - [0013] FIG. 1C is a vertical cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one or more embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a lighting system according to an alternative embodiment.

- 3 - [0029] FIG. 13 A is a schematic illustration of an electrical device according to one or more embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include a battery pack for a lighting device (i.e., a lighting device battery pack). The battery pack may include, for example, a solar street light battery pack. The battery pack (e.g., solar street light battery pack) may use repurposed battery cells and/or battery modules. The battery pack elements, such as interconnectivity, monitoring, placement, wiring and safety permit incorporation of a variety of new or used battery cells and battery modules.

- 4 - [0035] One or more embodiments may also include a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit that may include the battery pack. The lighting device energy storage unit may be used to store energy for a lighting device, such as a solar street light. In at least one embodiment, the lighting device energy storage unit may include a housing enclosure (including a security lock and mounting brackets). The housing enclosure may include, for example, a National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) 3R rated outer casing used for environmental and/or structural purposes. The lighting device energy storage unit may also include a solar controller, electrical relays and/or fuses, wiring, temperature control/monitoring/venting (e.g., fans, sensors, etc.) and a telematics/communication unit (e.g., board). The lighting device energy storage unit may also include the battery pack. The battery pack may include one or more new battery cells, new battery modules, repurposed battery cells and/or repurposed battery modules. The battery pack may also include a battery management system (BMS), wiring, terminals and an independent housing, such as an IP67 rated housing enclosure. The battery pack may include a plurality of battery cells (e.g., 1 to 500 battery cells) connected in series and/or parallel configuration.

[0038] The battery pack design may include a plurality of different battery cell compositions including, for example, single battery cell composition, mixed battery cell composition, single battery module composition and mixed battery module composition. [0039] The battery pack may utilize multiple battery cell and/or multiple battery module configurations while maintaining safe operation. The placement of the BMS within the battery pack can vary depending on the type of battery cell composition, battery cell orientation, battery module composition, battery module orientation, etc.

- 5 - [0040] The BMS may be designed to balance and power each type of configuration, paying close attention to the voltage/safety limits set by the application. In the case of a mixed battery cell and/or mixed module composition, individual limits may be set for varying chemistries by the BMS. The BMS architecture and wiring schematics for the battery pack may create simple standardization for ultimate flexibility. In at least one embodiment, the lighting device battery cell may include more than one BMS.

[0045] The battery cell 103 (e.g., electrochemical cell) in FIG. 1 A may include any type of energy storage device that may store chemical energy and convert it to electrical energy (e.g., electrical current). The battery cell 103 may include a positive end 103p having a positive battery cell terminal coupled to a positive (e.g., cathode) electrode, a negative end 103n having a negative battery cell terminal coupled to a negative (e.g., anode) electrode, and an electrolyte with an optional separator between the electrodes. The battery cell 103 may be a secondary (e.g., rechargeable) battery cell. In at least one embodiment, the battery cell 103 may include a lithium-ion battery cell (e.g., a lithium iron phosphate cell, lithium cobalt oxide cell, lithium manganese oxide cell, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide cell, lithium nickel

- 6 - cobalt aluminum oxide cell, lithium titanate cell, etc.), a sodium-ion battery cell, a nickel cadmium battery cell, and/or a nickel metal hydride battery cell. The battery cell 103 may commonly be configured, for example, as a pouch cell, a cylindrical cell or a prismatic cell. Other types of battery cells 103 (e.g., other types of chemical compositions) are within the contemplated scope of disclosure. For example, instead of cells having ion insertion (i.e., intercalation) type anode and cathode electrodes, the cells may comprise hybrid cell stacks having one intercalation electrode (e.g., cathode) and one non-ion insertion type (e.g., double layer capacitor type) electrode (e.g., anode). Alternatively, the cells may have two non-ion insertion electrodes (e.g., supercapacitor type cell stacks).

[0048] The negative terminal 106N may alternatively be formed on a second side 102s2 of the battery module housing 102 (opposite the first side 102s 1 ) and have a "female" configuration projecting into the second side 102s2. This design may allow the battery module 100 to be conveniently stacked together one or more other battery modules in a series arrangement. In that case, the negative terminal 106N may be substantially aligned (in the z-

-7 - direction) with the positive terminal 106P, so that the positive terminal 106P may be inserted into the negative terminal 106N in the series arrangement.

[0053] The battery module housing 102 may be divided into two separate sections to allow access to an interior of the battery module housing 102. The two sections may include, for example, an upper section including the first side wall 102 s 1 and a lower section including the second sidewall 102s2. In at least one embodiment, the two separate sections may be connected by a connecting structure (not shown), such as a hinge. In at least one embodiment, the battery module housing 102 may include a box-shaped case body (lower section) having a lid (upper section) that opens upward.

- 8 - [0054] The six sidewalls of the battery module housing 102 may be formed, for example, of a rigid material such as a metal, ceramic or polymer material. Other materials are within the contemplated scope of disclosure. The battery module housing 102 may be formed, for example, by mold forming, milling, casting, etc.

[0058] The BMS 120 may keep the battery module 100 from operating outside of its safety margins and monitor the battery cell stacks 104 and calculate how much current can safely go in (charge) and come out (discharge) without damaging the battery module 100. The BMS 120 may thereby prevent a source (e.g., a battery charger) and load (such as an inverter) from overdrawing or overcharging the battery. The BMS 120 may also monitor the remaining charge in the battery, continually tracking the amount of energy (e.g., power) entering and exiting the battery cells 103 and/or battery cell stacks 104 and monitoring voltages and/or currents of the battery cell stacks 104. The BMS 120 may collect and store

- 9 - data indicating that the battery module 100 is drained and shut the battery module 100 down. The BMS 120 may also monitor a temperature inside the battery module 100 and control a temperature control system (e.g., cooling fans) (not shown) of the battery module 100 to help maintain the temperature within an operating range. The BMS 120 may also detect a problem (e.g., a short) in the electrical circuitry of the battery module 100.

[0062] In particular, FIG. 2A is a plan view of the battery pack 300 having the first design. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the battery pack 300 having the first design may include a plurality of battery cell stacks 104 that may include one or more battery calls 103 (shown in FIG. 1A). The battery cells stacks 104 are illustrated in FIG. 2A as being arranged longitudinally in the y-direction, but the battery cell stacks 104 may alternatively or additionally be arranged longitudinally in the x-direction and/or the z-direction (e.g., vertically). The battery cell stacks 104 are also illustrated in FIG. 2A as being connected in series by interconnects 310 (e.g., bus bars) for electrically coupling the ends of the battery

- 10 - cell stacks 104, but the battery cell stacks 104 may also be connected in parallel or include a combination of both series and parallel connections. The interconnects 310 may be press fit or otherwise fastened to the negative terminals and positive terminals of the battery cell stacks 104.

[0065] The battery pack 300 may further include a battery management system (BMS) unit 320 configured to monitor and control an operation of the battery pack 300 including an operation of the battery cells stacks 104. The BMS unit 320 may mounted on or in the battery pack housing 302. The BMS unit 320 may be connected to each of the battery cell stacks 104 by one or more battery pack wiring lines 345. In at least one embodiment, the BMS unit 320 may be connected to the positive end and negative end of each of the battery cell stacks 104 by a battery pack wiring lines 345. The BMS unit 320 may also an external VO port 320a connected to an I/O connector 329a of a communication line 329. The BMS unit 320 may transmit data signals to and receive data signals from an external device (e.g., outside the battery pack 300) via the communication line 329. In particular, where the

- 11 - battery pack 300 is used to power a lighting device, the battery pack 300 may communicate with a lighting device controller of the lighting device via the communication line 329. Alternatively, the communication line 329 may be omitted if the BMS unit 320 is configured for wireless communication.

[0068] The structure and configuration of the battery cell stacks 104 in the battery pack 300 may allow them to be conveniently removed and replaced. In at least one embodiment, the battery cell stacks 104 may have a "plug and play" structure and configuration in which the battery cell stacks 104 slide conveniently into and out of connection between the interconnects 310, battery pack wiring lines 345 and the battery pack terminals 306. This may allow the battery pack 300 to accommodate and facilitate the repurposing of battery cell stacks 104. In particular, the battery cell stacks 104 in the battery pack 300 may include one or more repurposed battery cell stacks 104 (e.g., battery cell stacks that were previously used for another purpose).

- 12 - [0069] As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the battery cell stacks 104 may include a plurality of different types of battery cells stacks. In particular, the battery cell stacks 104 may include one or more first battery cell stacks 104 A and one or more second battery cell stacks 104B. The first battery cell stacks 104A may have a first type and the second battery cell stacks 104B may have a second type that is different than the first type. The "type" of a battery cell stack 104 may refer to a functionality of the battery cells 103 in the battery cell stack 104, a chemical composition of the battery cells 103 in the battery cell stack 104, configuration of the battery cells 103 in the battery cell stack 104, previous use of the battery cells 103 in the battery cell stack 104, and so on. Thus, for example, the first battery cell stacks 104A may have a first chemical composition and the second battery cell stacks 104B may include a second chemical composition different than the first chemical composition. For example, the first battery cell stacks 104A may include lithium iron phosphate battery cells and the second battery cell stacks 104B may include lithium cobalt oxide battery cells. As another example, the first battery cell stacks 104 A may include lithium-ion battery cells and the second battery cell stacks 104B may include nickel cadmium battery cells.

[0071] FIG. 2B is a schematic view of the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300 having the first design according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the BMS unit 320 may include a management unit 122, and at least one of a current sensor 123 and/or a voltage sensor 125. The BMS unit 320 may also include cell interface circuitry 330 including the voltage sensor 125 and equalizing circuitry 126. The BMS unit 320 is one example of a management system that may be used to manage an operation of the battery pack 300. Other management systems may be within the contemplated scope of disclosure. [0072] The management unit 122 may operate with electric power supplied from the battery cells 103. The management unit 122 may include a central processing unit (CPU) 122a (e.g., microprocessor), a memory device 122b (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), etc.), a communication unit 122c (e.g., telematics unit), and the like. The memory device 122b may include ROM for storing various control programs and data indicating post-discharge open-circuit voltage (OCV) and state-of-charge (SOC)

- 13 - characteristics. The CPU 122a may control each part of the battery pack 300 by executing a control program stored in the ROM. The communication unit 122c may communicate (e.g., by wire or wirelessly) with an external controller that is outside the battery pack 300. In at least one embodiment, the communication unit 122c may be connected by a communication line 129 to the external controller.

[0075] The current sensor 123 may be connected to the battery cell stacks 104 (or battery cells 103) by the battery pack wiring lines 345. The current sensor 123 may measure a current value of a charge current flowing to the battery cell stacks 104 during charge, and a current value of a discharge current flowing from the battery cell stacks 104 to an electric

- 14 - load during discharge. The current sensor 123 may then output the measured current value to the CPU 122a of the management unit 122.

[0080] The battery pack bracket 370 may be mounted (e.g., by fasteners such as screws, bolts, etc.) to a wall of the battery pack housing 302. In at least one embodiment, the battery

- 15 - pack bracket 370 may be mounted to the bottom wall. The battery pack bracket 370 may include a mounting plate 372 mounted to a wall of the battery pack housing 302. The battery pack bracket 370 may also include one or more tracks 374 on the mounting plate 372. The tracks 374 may be integrally formed with the mounting plate 372 or may be connected to the mounting plate 372 by fasteners. The battery pack bracket 370 may also include bracket walls 376 that are slidably mounted on the tracks 372.

[0083] After the bracket walls 376 are moved into a desirable position as shown on the right side of FIG. 2C) the spring-loaded pins may be released, so as to be forced into one or more of the positioning holes in the track 374 and fix the bracket walls 376 into position. In at least one embodiment, the spring-loaded pins may be depressed and the bracket walls 376 moved by one more electric motors, pulleys, gears, etc. under the control of the BMS unit 320 (see FIG. 2B). By pushing in the bracket walls 376 (e.g., four bracket walls 376) along all four sides of the mounting plate 372, any spaces between the battery cell stacks 104 may be minimized (e.g., eliminated) and the battery cell stacks 104 may be securely held in a fixed position by the bracket walls 376. It should be noted that thermal control plates (e.g., cooling plates) may be inserted between the battery cell stacks 104 but are omitted in FIG. 2C for ease of understanding. The battery pack bracket 370 may accommodate a plurality of types, plurality of shapes, plurality of sizes and/or plurality of orientations of the battery cell stacks 104. The battery pack bracket 370 may also accommodate multiple configurations of

- 16 - the battery cell stacks 104 while the BMS unit 320 maintains safe operation of the battery pack 300.

[0086] The structure and configuration of the battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300 may allow them to be conveniently removed and replaced. In at least one embodiment, the

- 17 - battery modules 100 may have a "plug and play" structure and configuration in which the battery modules 100 slide conveniently into and out of connection between the interconnects 310, battery pack wiring lines 345 and the battery pack terminals 306. For example, referring to FIG. 3 A, the interconnects 310 and the battery pack terminals 306 may be mounted on a lid (not shown) of the battery pack 300. In that case, a battery module 100 may be removed from the battery pack 300 may simply lifting the lid to separate the interconnects 310 and the battery pack terminals 306 from the battery modules 100. This may allow the battery pack 300 to accommodate and facilitate the repurposing of battery modules 100. In particular, the battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300 may include one or more repurposed battery modules 100 (e.g., battery modules that were previously used for another purpose).

[0089] FIG. 3B is a schematic view of the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300 having the second design according to one or more embodiments. The BMS unit 320 for the battery pack 300 having the second design may have a functionality similar to the BMS unit 320 for

- 18 - the battery pack 300 having the first design. However, since the BMS 120 of the battery modules 100 may include cell interface circuitry and functionality, the cell interface circuitry 330 (see FIG. 2B) may not be included in the BMS unit 320 for the battery pack 300 having the second design.

[0092] FIG. 3C is a plan view of a battery pack bracket 370 in the battery pack 300 having the second design according to one or more embodiments. The battery pack bracket

- 19 - 370 in the battery pack 300 having the second design may be substantially the same as the battery pack bracket 370 in the battery pack 300 having the first design (see FIG. 2C). The battery pack bracket 370 may be used to fix a position of the battery modules 100 in the battery pack housing 302.

[0095] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a method of replacing an energy storage device (e.g., battery cell stack 104 and/or battery module 100) in the battery pack 300 according to one or more embodiments. Step 410 may include providing a battery pack including a battery pack bracket set to a first setting to accommodate a plurality of energy storage devices. Step 420 may include removing a first energy storage device from the plurality of

- 20 - energy storage devices. Step 430 may include inserting a second energy storage device in place of the first energy storage device into the battery pack. Step 440 may include adjusting the battery pack bracket from the first setting to a second setting different than the first setting to accommodate the second energy storage device. The first energy storage device may have a first size, a first shape and a first orientation, and the second energy storage device may have at least one of a second size different than the first size, a second shape different than the first shape, or a second orientation different than the first orientation. The method may also include locking the battery pack bracket into the second setting using a locking mechanism of the battery pack bracket.

[0099] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the lighting device 400 may also include one or more light sources 402 (e.g., lamps) that emit light. The light source 402 may be mounted, for example, on the base structure of the light fixture 404. The light source 402 may include, for example, one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), one or more halogen lamps, etc. In at least one embodiment, the light source 402 may include a 12 volt LED light source including

- 21 - a plurality of LEDs. Each of the LEDs may have a nominal raw output of 100 lumens/W att or more at a thermal pad temperature of 25 °C. The LEDs may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) and each LED may have a small glass lens to create an initial desired illumination pattern. A high transmittance polycarbonate layer may be located closely over the LED's.

[00103] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the lighting device 400 according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the lighting device 400 may include a charge controller 412 for controlling a charging of the battery pack 300 in the LDES unit 510 by the PV panel 408. The charge controller 412 may be mounted, for example, on the mounting structure 406. In particular, the charge controller 412 may regulate the flow of electricity

- 22 - from the PV panel 408 to the LDES unit 510 to ensure that the battery pack 300 is not overcharged or undercharged, which can harm the battery pack 300 and reduce its lifespan. [00104] In at least one embodiment, the charge controller 412 may also perform maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in which the power from the PV panel 408 is optimized by matching the voltage and current of the PV panel 408 with the battery pack 300. The charge controller 412 may also perform a disconnect operation in which the PV panel 408 is disconnected from the LDES unit 510 when the battery pack 300 is fully charged to prevent overcharging. The charge controller 412 may also perform a low voltage disconnect in which a load (e.g., the light source 402) in the lighting device 400 is disconnected from the LDES unit 510 when the voltage drops to a pre-determined level, to prevent deep discharge and damage to the battery pack 300. The charge controller 412 may also perform load control in which the connection of the load to the LDES unit 510 is controlled depending on a voltage and state of charge of the battery pack 300.

[00106] The lighting device controller 414 may also include a communications unit 414c for allowing the lighting device controller 414 to communicate (e.g., under the control of the processor 414a; via a wired or wireless connection) an operating status of the lighting device

- 23 - 400. The communication unit 414c may also allow the lighting device 400 to be remotely managed by a user. In at least one embodiment, the lighting device controller 414 may be connected through the communications unit 414c to an external server or external network, such as the Internet and may access the Cloud via the connection. A user may monitor (e.g., remotely monitor) a performance of the lighting device 400 and/or manage an operation of the lighting device 400 by way of communications unit 414c in the lighting device controller 414.

[00109] The lighting device controller 414 may be communicatively coupled to the charge controller 412 via data line 462a through which the lighting device controller 414 may control an operation of the charge controller 412. The lighting device controller 414 may also receive a motion sensing signal from the motion sensor 403 via data line 462b. The lighting device controller 414 may also receive a light sensing signal from the light sensor 405 via data line 462c. The lighting device controller 414 may also be communicatively coupled to the LDES unit 510 via data line 462d. The lighting device controller 414 may monitor and/or control an operation of the LDES unit 510 via the data line 462d. It should be noted that each of the LDES unit 510, charge controller 412, motion sensor 403 and light sensor 405 may also be equipped with a wireless transceiver, so that each of the data lines 462a, 462b, 462c and 462d may be replaced with a wireless connection from the wireless transceivers.

- 24 - [00110] During the day, the PV panel 408 may convert sunlight into electrical energy that is transmitted to the charge controller 412. The charge controller 412 may transmit the electrical energy from the PV panel 408 to the LDES unit 510 to charge the battery pack 300. The battery pack 300 may store electrical energy until directed to discharge power (i.e., current) to the light source 402 by the lighting device controller 414.

[00113] The LDES unit housing 302 may be mounted, for example, on a side of the mounting structure 406 of the lighting device 400 (see FIG. 5). The LDES unit housing 502 may have a construction similar to the construction of the battery pack housing 302 described above. In particular, the LDES unit housing 502 may have a substantially cuboid shape including a box-shaped case body (back section) with a door (front section). A door or access panel may be connected to the box-shaped case body, for example, by one or more hinges. The view of FIG. 7 is a view from the front into the back section with the door or

- 25 - access panel omitted for ease of understanding. The LDES unit housing 502 may include walls formed, for example, of a rigid material such as a metal, ceramic or polymer material. [00114] The LDES unit 510 may further include LDES unit terminals 506 connected to the battery pack 300. The LDES unit terminals 506 may include a positive LDES unit terminal 506P connected (e.g., electrically connected) to the positive battery pack terminal 306P, and a negative LDES unit terminal 506N connected (e.g., electrically connected) to the negative battery pack terminal 306N. The positive LDES unit terminal 506P may be connected to the LDES unit controller 520 by positive LDES unit wiring line 545P. The negative LDES unit terminal 506N may be connected to the LDES unit controller 520 by negative LDES unit wiring line 545N. The positive LDES unit terminal 506P and the negative LDES unit terminal 506N may be similar in construction to the battery pack terminals 306 of the battery pack 300.

[00117] In a case where the LDES unit 510 includes more than one battery packs 300, the LDES unit bracket 570 may be used to fix a position of all of the battery packs 300. In that case, thermal control plates (e.g., cooling plates) may be inserted between the battery packs 300. The LDES unit bracket 570 may accommodate a plurality of types, plurality of shapes,

- 26 - plurality of sizes and plurality of orientations of the battery packs 300. The LDES unit bracket 570 may also accommodate multiple configurations of the battery packs 300 while the LDES unit controller 520 (e.g., in cooperation with the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300) maintains safe operation of the LDES unit 510.

[00121] The LDES unit controller 520 may transmit charge and discharge status information to the lighting device controller 414 via the data line 462d. The LDES unit controller 520 may also transmit information regarding a status (e.g., capacity) of the battery pack 300 to the lighting device controller 414 via the data line 462d. It should be noted that

- 27 - while the data lines 329 and 462d may be described above as wired connections, the lines 329 and 462d may be replaced by wireless data connections.

[00125] The management unit 522 may monitor and manage a performance of the battery pack 300 by collecting, storing and monitoring data pertaining to performance of the battery pack 300. Such data may include, for example, energy capacity (e.g., the total amount of energy that can be stored in the battery pack 300), power rating (e.g., the maximum power output of the battery pack 300), depth of discharge (e.g., the percentage of the total energy capacity that has been used), charge/discharge efficiency (e.g., the percentage of energy that is retained by the battery pack 300 during charging and discharging cycles), cycle life (e.g., the number of times the battery pack 300 can be charged and discharged before its capacity begins to degrade), self-discharge rate (e.g., the rate at which the battery pack 300 loses its charge when not in use), temperature performance (e.g., the performance of the battery pack 300 under different temperatures), voltage (e.g., the voltage of the battery pack 300 during

- 28 - different states of charge), state of charge (e.g., the charge level of the battery pack 300 at any point of time), and state of health (e.g., the health status of the battery pack 300 over time).

[00127] The memory device 522b may include ROM for storing various control programs for controlling a charging operation and a discharging operation of the battery pack 300 in cooperation with the BMS unit 320. The memory device 522b may also include RAM for storing battery pack charging and discharging data (e.g., history data, performance data, etc.). [00128] In at least one embodiment, the memory device 522b may store history data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100 (e.g., energy storage devices) in the battery pack 300. The history data may include, for example, including capacity history data, voltage history data, charging history data, discharging history data, etc. The memory device 522b may also store identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300. The identification data may include, for example, the type of battery cells (e.g., lithium-ion battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, nickel cadmium battery cells, etc.) in the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100. The identification data may also include the date of inserting each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100 in the battery pack 300, and whether the battery cell stack 104 and/or battery module 100 is a repurposed battery cell stack 104 and/or repurposed battery module 100 (e.g., a battery cell stack 104 and/or battery module 100 previously used for the same or different purpose for which it is being used in the battery pack 300). The identification data may be obtained from the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300 which may store the identification data. The LDES unit controller 520 may also regularly (e.g., periodically) and/or automatically request updated identification data from the BMS unit 320 in the battery pack 300 to update the identification data stored in the memory device 522b.

- 29 - [00129] The identification data may also be generated by the CPU 522a which may execute software stored in the memory device 522b to generate such identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100. In particular, the CPU 522a may generate the identification data by comparing the stored history data for the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100 to one or more reference tables and look-up tables stored in the memory device 522b. The CPU 522a may then control an operation of the battery pack 300 (e.g., charging operation, discharging operation, etc.) based on the identification data for each of the battery cell stacks 104 and/or battery modules 100. [00130] The telematics unit 522c may include a wireless transceiver for wirelessly communicating with an external device (e.g., remote device) over a wireless network (e.g., cellular, WiFi, bluetooth, etc.). The telematics unit 522c may be connected, for example, to the antenna 580 (see FIG. 7) to help facilitate the wireless connection. The telematics unit 522c may be communicatively coupled via the wireless connection to an external server or external network such as the Internet. The telematics unit 522c may allow the LDES unit controller 520 to access the Cloud via the wireless connection. The telematics unit 522c may also be communicatively coupled to the BMS unit 320 via the communication line 329. The telematics unit 522c may transmit data signals to the BMS unit 320 (e.g., battery pack charging instructions, battery pack discharging instructions, etc.) and receive data signals from the BMS unit 320 via the communication line 329. The telematics unit 522c may also be communicatively coupled to the lighting device controller 414 by the data line 462d. The telematics unit 522c may allow the LDES unit controller 520 to coordinate charging and discharging operations for the battery pack 300 with the lighting device controller 414 via the data line 462d.

[00132] In operation, the battery pack 300 (or two or more battery packs 300) may be placed on a central region of the mounting plate 572. The battery packs 300 may have a plurality of shapes, plurality of sizes and plurality of orientations. The spring-loaded pins in the locking mechanism 578 may be depressed by a user to retract the pins out of the

- 30 - positioning holes of the locking mechanism 578 and allow the bracket wall 576 to move slidably along the track(s) 574. The bracket wall 576 may be pushed by the user toward the central region of the mounting place 572, contact one or more of the battery packs 300 and thereby force the contacted battery pack 300 toward the central region of the mounting plate 572.

[00135] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a lighting system 1100 according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the lighting system 1100 may include one or more lighting devices 400. In at least one embodiment, the lighting system 1100 may include a solar lighting system including one or more solar lighting devices.

- 31 - [00136] The lighting devices 400 in the lighting system 1100 may be connected to each other via a wired or wireless connection between the telematics units 522c in each of the lighting devices 400. The lighting system 1100 may also include a central controller 1120 that may individually and/or collectively control all of the lighting devices 400 in the lighting system 1100. The lighting devices 400 and central controller 1120 may each be connected via a wired or wireless connection to a network 1200 such as the Internet and may each access the Cloud via the connection. The lighting devices 400 may be communicatively coupled to the central controller 1120 via the network 1200.

[00139] In at least one embodiment, the central controller 1120 may include a management unit similar to the management unit 522 in the LDES unit controller 520 (see FIG. 8). In particular, the central controller 1120 may include a processor (e.g., CPU), a memory device (e.g., RAM, ROM, etc.) and telematics unit). The central controller 1120 may be programmed to periodically access the LDES unit controllers 520 in each of the LDES units 510 of the lighting devices 400. The central controller 1120 may use this periodic access to collect data from each of the lighting devices 400 and store the collected data in the memory device. The data collected and stored by the central controller 1120 may be substantially the same as the data collected and stored by the LDES unit controller 520. The central controller 1120 may include repurposing software (e.g., stored in the memory

- 32 - device) that utilizes the data collected and stored in the memory device to manage and direct a repurposing operation in which battery cells stacks 104, battery modules 100 and battery packs 300 are repurposed into and out of the lighting system 1100.

[00143] In particular, the lighting device 400 in the first alternative design may include a wheeled structure 1200, such as a trailer, cart, truck, transporter, etc. The wheeled structure 1200 may include a deck 1201 (e.g., metal platform, bed, plate, etc.), and the LDES unit 510 and mounting structure 406 may be mounted on the deck 1201. The wheeled structure 1200 may also include two or more wheels 1202 attached to the deck 1201 and one or more axles (not shown) connecting the wheels 1202 on opposing sides of the deck 1201.

- 33 - [00144] In at least one embodiment, the wheeled structure 1200 may be self-propelled and include an engine, drive train, etc. (not shown) which may be used to propel the wheeled structure 1200. The wheeled structure 1200 may alternatively or additionally include a hitch 1203 attached (directly or indirectly) to the deck 1201. The wheeled structure 1200 may conveniently transported by a vehicle (car, truck, etc.) attached to the hitch 1203.

[00149] As further illustrated in FIG. 13 A, the electrical device 1300 may also include one or more items of electrical equipment such as a display 1302 mounted on the mounting structure 406. In at least one embodiment, the electrical device 1300 may include the display

- 34 - 1302 in addition to the light source 402 (e.g., see FIGS 5 and 12). The display 1302 may include any type of electrically powered display such as a LED display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), etc. In at least one embodiment, the electrical device 1300 may be used for traffic control purposes and the display 1302 may be used to display traffic control directions, warnings, etc. The optional motion sensor 403 and light sensor 405 may be mounted, for example, on the display 1302 or on a base structure attached to the display 1302.

[00152] FIG. 13B is a block diagram of the electrical device 1300 according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 13B, the block diagram for the electrical device 1300 may be substantially similar to the block diagram for the lighting device 400 in FIG. 6. The electrical device 1300 may operate in a manner similar to the manner of operation of the lighting device 400.

- 35 - [00153] As illustrated in FIG. 13B, the electrical device 1300 may include the charge controller 412 for controlling a charging of the battery pack 300 in the EDES unit 1310, performing MPPT, performing a disconnect operation, performing a low voltage disconnect and load control. The electrical device 1300 may also include an electrical device controller 1314 (e.g., microcontroller) substantially similar to the lighting device controller 414 in the lighting device 400. The electrical device controller 1314 may be mounted on the base structure of the display 1304 along with the optional motion sensor 403 and light sensor 405. The electrical device controller 1314 may control an overall operation and performance of the electrical device 1300. In particular, the electrical device controller 1314 may regulate an operation of the display 1302 to minimize energy consumption, adjust a brightness of the display 1302, schedule when the display 1302 should be turned on and off, etc. The electrical device controller 1314 may also be remotely managed by a user through the communications unit 414c, and may be connected through the communications unit 414c to an external server or external network, such as the Internet and may access the Cloud via the connection.

[00155] FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of an electrical device 1300 having a second alternative design according to one or more embodiments. The electrical device 1300 having the second alternative design may be substantially similar to the electrical device 1300 having the design in FIGS. 13A and 13B and the electrical device 1300 having the first alternative design in FIG. 14. However, the electrical device may include one or more other items of electrical equipment, such as a sensor array 1306 in addition to or instead of the display 1302 and/or the camera 1305. In at least one embodiment, the electrical device 1300 may include the sensor array 1306 in addition to the light source 402 (e.g., see FIGS. 5 and 12). The sensor array 1306 may be mounted to the mounting structure 406 in a manner similar to the manner of mounting the display 1302 and/or the manner of mounting the camera 1305. The

- 36 - sensor array 1306 may include one or more types of sensors such as sound sensors, temperature sensors, light sensors, motion sensors, pressure sensors, proximity sensors, gas sensors, image sensors (e.g., video sensors), etc.

- 37 -

Claims

5. The LDES unit of claim 2, further comprising a temperature control system configured to monitor and control a temperature in the LDES unit housing, wherein the temperature control system is configured to be controlled by the LDES unit controller.

6. The LDES unit of claim 2, wherein the LDES unit controller comprises: electrical devices comprising at least one of electrical relays, DC/DC converters or electrical fuses; and wiring connecting the electrical devices to the battery pack.

12. The LDES unit of claim 1, wherein the battery pack further comprises an adjustable battery pack bracket configured to fix a position of the plurality of energy storage devices in the battery pack housing, wherein the adjustable battery pack bracket includes a locking

- 39 - mechanism configured to lock a configuration of the battery pack bracket and to accommodate at least one of a plurality of shapes, a plurality of sizes or a plurality of orientations of the plurality of energy storage devices.

16. A lighting device, comprising: a light source; a lighting device controller configured to control an operation of the light source; and a lighting device energy storage (LDES) unit configured to store energy to power the light source, wherein the LDES unit comprises: a battery pack including a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types; and

- 40 - a LDES unit controller communicatively coupled to the lighting device controller and the battery pack and configured to control an operation of the LDES unit.

20. The lighting device of claim 19, wherein the LDES unit controller is configured to control a discharging operation of the battery pack to power a light source of a solar lighting device, and to control a charging operation of the battery pack by a photovoltaic (PV) panel of the solar lighting device.

21. An electrical device, comprising: an electrical equipment; an electrical device controller configured to control an operation of the electrical equipment; and an electrical device energy storage (EDES) unit configured to store energy to power the electrical equipment, wherein the EDES unit comprises: a battery pack including a plurality of energy storage devices of a plurality of different types; and an EDES unit controller communicatively coupled to the electrical device controller and the battery pack and configured to control an operation of the EDES unit.