Abstract: A vehicle power charger includes a generally cylindrically-shaped body portion suitable for plugging into a vehicle cigarette lighter receptacle, a spring-loaded metal contact pin for engagement with electrical contacts inside the receptacle, and an oblong end portion formed at an angle to the cylindrically-shaped body portion including a cavity that holds and protects one or more USB ports, and a cavity cover that slides, rotates or flips between open and closed positions.

Abstract: The invention relates to a recharging station (10) for recharging an electric vehicle (50) powered by energy storage means (52), said vehicle (50) being designed to follow a route via a point at which the recharging station (10) is situated, said station (10) including recharging means (12) suitable for recharging the storage means (52) of the electric vehicle (50) while said vehicle is in the vicinity of the station. The invention is characterized in that the recharging means (12) comprise a storage device (14) suitable for storing electrical energy delivered by an electrical energy source (16), and connection means (18) for electrically connecting the storage device (14) of the station (10) to the storage means (52) of the vehicle (50), and for transferring the energy stored in the storage device (14) of the station (10) to the storage means (52) of the electric vehicle (50).

Abstract: A method for charging a hybrid electric vehicle having a high voltage battery that both propels the vehicle and starts the vehicle. More specifically, if the high voltage battery has a depleted or diminished charge and is unable to start an internal combustion engine, then the method described herein may be used to charge the high voltage battery with energy from a low voltage external power source. In one embodiment, the low voltage external power source is a conventional car battery that is connected to the hybrid electric vehicle by way of jumper cables.

Abstract: An information processing apparatus includes: a rechargeable battery that is electrically connected to a charging electric power generating device; a switch that is disposed between the rechargeable battery and the charging electric power generating device; an electric power measuring unit that measures electric power produced by the charging electric power generating device; and a charge controller that controls the switch to be turned OFF when the electric power measured by the electric power measuring unit is smaller than a first electric power threshold.

Abstract: In a jump-starting method between an electric vehicle providing a jump-start and an electric vehicle receiving a jump-start, the electrical systems of the two electric vehicles are temporarily interconnected electrically during the time of the jump-starting.

Abstract: A battery sensor unit including a pole terminal, the terminal being electrically conductively connected to a plate-shaped carrier element and a planar measuring shunt, the shunt including a resistor element and adjoining resistor connections on both sides thereof. The carrier element is connected in an electrically conducting manner to the one resistor connection, and the second free end region of the carrier element is connected electrically insulated to the second resistor connection. A spacer made of an electrically insulating material is provided. The second free end region of the carrier element and the second resistor connection with the sides facing each other are connected to the spacer. Said spacer can be connected with the second free end region of the carrier element and also with the second resistor connection.

Abstract: A battery monitoring system (BMS) configured for use in measuring operating conditions of a battery or other source of electric current. The BMS may include a housing configured to include a dampening element between a shunt and connection arm in order to limit the likelihood of vibrations and other forces acting on the BMS shorting or otherwise disrupting electrical connections used to measure current through the shunt.

Abstract: A method of externally charging a powertrain includes monitoring a voltage level of a first battery, determining when the monitored voltage level is below a first voltage threshold, and when the monitored voltage level is below the first voltage threshold, charging the first battery by supplying power from an external power source and increasing voltage of the power supplied by the external power source within the powertrain.

Abstract: A reserve power source for charging a device, such as a depleted power source or a vehicle. The reserve power source including: a reserve battery which requires activation to produce power, such as a thermal battery or a liquid reserve battery; an activator for activating the reserve power upon one of an electrical or mechanical activation; and a pair of terminals operatively connected to the reserve battery for outputting the produced power. The reserve power source can also include a cable connected to each of the pair of terminals for connecting outputting the produced power to the depleted power source and/or conditioning circuitry for conditioning the produced power prior to output at the terminals. The reserve battery can also include a stop for preventing the activator from activating the reserve power source, where the stop is selectively removable when activation is desired.

Abstract: Methods and devices for connecting a current source to a target storage device via a transmission cable extendable and/or retractable via a conduit that may be repositioned.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and products are disclosed for managing energy consumption. Electrical power from an auxiliary battery system is received. The electrical power is shared with peripheral devices. A characteristic of a vehicle battery is received from an interface to an on board diagnostic system. When the electrical power received from the auxiliary battery system is less than a threshold value, then the auxiliary battery system is charged from a connection to the vehicle battery. The charging of the auxiliary battery system is disabled when the characteristic of the vehicle battery is less than the minimum value.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing a low cost, quick, and convenient automobile jump starting system and method. The jump start system comprises an adapter suitable to receive at least one hand held power tool battery. The adapter in certain embodiments comprises conductive metallic spring clips for making electrical connection(s) between the tool battery and the adapter. The adapter further comprises a plurality of connectible gauge wires (serving as booster cables) each having biasing connectors (alligator clips). The distal ends of the gauge wire(s) may be removably connectible to the adapter or may be rigidly fixed to the adapter. The Jump Start Adapter System may also be removably connected to the vehicle battery using biasing connectors or may be hard wired to the vehicle electrical system eliminating the need for biasing connectors.

Abstract: A portable battery booster for providing a compact, light, and energy efficient battery to jump start a vehicle. The portable battery booster generally includes a housing, a battery means adapted to be received by the housing, a pair of cable means, each of the cable means having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end electrically connected to the battery means and the distal end detachably connected to a discharged battery of the vehicle. The battery is generally comprised of one or more batteries having the type of primary lithium-metal, rechargeable lithium-ion, and/or lithium-polymer and more specifically preferably comprised of lithium iron phosphate for fast charging, small size, and high performance. The battery may also be connected to one or more supercapacitors, an internal CPU, DC/DC converter, etc. to increase performance. The cable means includes jaws that detachably connect to the housing in a flush and sleek manner.

Abstract: A vehicle control system has a battery mounted to a vehicle, a vehicle alternator charging the battery, a battery current detection device detecting a charging/discharging current of the battery, a voltage regulation device regulating an output voltage of the vehicle alternator to a specified output voltage, and a temperature sensor mounted to the inside of the battery current detection device. One terminal of a shunt resistance is connected to a negative terminal of the battery through a battery clump, and the other terminal of the shunt resistance is grounded. The temperature sensor is placed close to the shunt resistance. This structure enables the temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the battery with a high accuracy while considering the temperature characteristics of the shunt resistance.

Abstract: The self-powered battery jump method uses a vehicle's alternator to charge main and spare batteries during vehicle operation. If the main battery loses its power, the spare battery supplies power to the main battery and to the vehicle's engine in order to start the vehicle whenever it is needed without any external electricity. Manual, semi-automated, and automated jump modes are provided.

Abstract: A battery charger includes a rechargeable battery for providing electric power to an external rechargeable battery through a damper unit so as to charge the external rechargeable battery, and a control unit coupled to a charging socket and the rechargeable battery and operable to charge the rechargeable battery through a charging signal received by the charging socket. An alarm unit is coupled to the rechargeable battery and the charging socket for generating a detecting signal based on a battery voltage of the rechargeable battery, for outputting a reminder output upon detecting that a potential of the detecting signal is less than that of a reference signal, and for terminating the reminder output when the charging socket receives the charging signal.

Abstract: A portable battery charger, comprising a base assembly housing a first electrical system. The first electrical system comprises a first rechargeable battery with a respective first booster cable port. The first booster cable port has first receiving means to receive removable booster cables. The first electrical system has first recharging means to recharge the first rechargeable battery. The base assembly also houses an air compressor system. The air compressor system comprises an air compressor having means to deliver compressed air through a hose to a valve stem fitting. A head assembly houses a second electrical system. The second electrical system comprises a second rechargeable battery with a respective second booster cable port. The second booster cable port has second receiving means to receive the removable booster cables. The second electrical system has second recharging means to recharge the second rechargeable battery. The head assembly removably mounts onto the base assembly.

Abstract: An energy storage system, more particularly to a power distribution system for providing power for an indeterminate period of time. The power distribution system comprises means for converting the energy from an alternator to AC/DC circuits. The alternator transmits electric current to a battery, where an inverter is electrically connected to the battery and transmits AC power to low-load circuits. A DC control panel is connected to the battery and transmits electric current from the battery to low-load DC circuits. The power system is part of a portable toolbox. The system is connected to a vehicle's charging system or any mechanism having a alternator a first battery an engine and a starting system an would continually recharge it self.

Abstract: Methods and devices for connecting a current source to a target storage device via a transmission cable extendable and/or retractable via a conduit that may be repositioned.

Abstract: A method for charging a hybrid electric vehicle having a high voltage battery that both propels the vehicle and starts the vehicle. More specifically, if the high voltage battery has a depleted or diminished charge and is unable to start an internal combustion engine, then the method described herein may be used to charge the high voltage battery with energy from a low voltage external power source. In one embodiment, the low voltage external power source is a conventional car battery that is connected to the hybrid electric vehicle by way of jumper cables.

Abstract: A multi-purpose battery jump starter and reconditioner. The device is portable and includes electronic circuitry for use in desulfating lead-acid batteries. A rechargeable internal battery permits operation in remote conditions. Accessories include an air compressor, DC outlet, USB outlet, and light to cause cycling of the battery for optimum life. The jump starter, cables and air compressor are all integrated into a light weight compact housing.

Abstract: A power supply that is housed in a case is provided. Outlets of the power supply are provided external to the case such that the case can be closed during operation of the power supply. The case can provide protection for components of the power supply as well as provide a mobile system that can easily be transported. One or more cooling fans and passageways can further be provided to cool components of the power supply. Additionally, two or more independent power systems can be provided in the power supply to allow for redundancy.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a system for alerting a low battery charge condition in a jump-starter. In an embodiment, the system is portable. The system includes a first battery. The first battery is configured to provide a first battery voltage across a positive terminal and a negative terminal of the first battery. The system also includes a voltage comparison circuit that is electrically connected to the positive terminal and the negative terminal of the first battery. The voltage comparison circuit is configured to compare a reference voltage to the first battery voltage. The system includes an alert circuit electrically connected to the voltage comparison circuit and configured to generate an output signal for a speaker. The system also includes a switch configured to toggle between an enabled state and a disabled state. In an embodiment, the switch includes a stopper tap.

Abstract: A method of recharging a caddy cart battery, comprises a step of connecting the caddy cart battery to an electrical supply of a vehicle to thereby charge the caddy cart battery. The method employs an electronic charge varying device to decrease the electrical supply to the caddy cart battery when it is recharged, wherein the charge passing from the vehicle battery to the caddy cart battery passes through the charge varying device. The invention also relates to a kit for carrying out the method of the invention, and a vehicle incorporating means for re-charging a caddy cart battery.

Abstract: A portable emergency appliance comprises a housing and an integrated power source. A retractable handle extends from the housing between a first position and a second position. Retractable cables are connected to the power source and are removably connectable to the retractable handle, such that the cables are secured by the handle when the handle is in the first position, and are at least partially extended when the handle is in the second position. The cables are then releasable from the handle at the second position, to typically provide further extension and retraction to render service to an external entity. The power source is preferably rechargeable. The emergency appliance may preferably provide a variety of other functions, such as but not limited to AC power, DC power, pressurized air, lighting, tool storage and/or data storage and/or display.

Abstract: A polarity protection circuit for a battery booster device is provided. According to an exemplary embodiment, the polarity protection circuit is comprised of solid-state devices. Preferably no mechanical or electro-mechanical devices, such as solenoids are included in the polarity protection circuit. The polarity protection circuit is electrically connected to the battery to be charged and to the boosting battery. The polarity protection circuit prevents current flow between the batteries unless proper polarity is achieved.

Abstract: A portable and integrated backup electric power supplies system, equipped with a battery. It comprises of an alternating current power supply, and a multifunction direct current power supply containing a variable voltage power supply, a dual polarity voltage power supply, a variable NIMH battery charger, a 12-volt lead-acid battery charger, and an automotive jumpstart system.

Abstract: A portable power storage and supply system having means for AC charging, DC charging, AC discharging and DC discharging wherein any one or any combination of the AC and DC charging and discharging can be carried at one time. The system includes an inverter, one or more battery modules and control means for controlling the AC and DC charging and discharging functions for safe and efficient operation. DC charging can include energy from a renewable energy source. The battery modules are separable from the system for providing DC energy for energizing automotive battery jumper cables or for energizing DC powered devices.

Abstract: A remote-controlled battery charging/testing system includes an execution unit capable of performing at least one battery-related function and a control panel remotely connected to and in operable communication with the execution unit. Communication may be wired or wireless. The control panel is installed in an ergonomically-suitable position such that the user does not need to bend or stoop to provide input to the battery charging/testing system. Both the execution unit and the control panel may be cart-mounted for portability and mobility. In cart-mounted configurations, the control panel is adjustable to maintain an ergonomically-suitable position. In free-standing configurations, the execution unit may be installed so as to be conveniently located yet unobtrusive, with the control panel installed in an ergonomically-suitable, accessible position.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for coupling a battery charger and/or a battery tester to a battery is provided. A clamp can be selectively removed from a cable. This allows replacement of the clamp as desired as well as fixedly or removably coupling the cable to the battery tester or charger.

Abstract: A method and apparatus provides supplemental power to an engine. The method and apparatus includes a pair of conductive leads for connecting the supplemental power to an engine electrical system, a batter, a relay connected to the conductive leads, a shunt cable connecting the batter to the relay and a processor for controlling the relay to selectively apply electrical power to the engine electrical system. The method and apparatus includes safety features to reduce the risk of injury to the operator and damage to the apparatus and/or engine electrical system.

Abstract: The present disclosure is a system and method for charging a high voltage battery of a hybrid automotive vehicle which contemporaneously provides a user with a visual display of diagnostic hybrid system information, including but not limited to, battery data and state of charge data through a user interface located internal a cabin of the vehicle. In other exemplary embodiments, the user interface is operable for providing the visual display while also providing access to other features of the vehicle to the user.

Abstract: An electric source noise pattern analysis method for vehicle battery protection and power management and device thereof provides ignition status recognized against battery discharge due to electric equipment requirement. This device is connected in parallel with the main battery and backup battery of a vehicle. This device features the addition of a source characteristic sensing unit which analyzes voltages, currents, power noises of main battery and backup battery, a pattern analysis method which utilizes the sensing characteristics to recognize the running and power used situation of vehicle, and a power management and control unit which employs at least one adjustment timer to manage main battery and backup battery relied on the vehicle situation. The device which operates to connect and disconnect the main and the backup battery from the load based on a sophisticated management algorithm to control to prevent from power exhausted by electric appliances.

Abstract: The present invention consists of a highly versatile AC portable power supply which can be used in a variety of situations to power 110 V AC common household devices, including holiday lighting or driveway or path lighting. It can also be used to jump start a dead vehicle battery either by a trickle charge via the vehicle's lighter outlet. The portable AC unit is provided with at least 3 sets of recharging plugs so that the user can recharge it with solar panels, or 110 V standard household current or 12 V vehicle battery. The portable AC unit is also provided with a timer to automatically turn it on and off at a preset time. In addition, it is provided with a display unit which can display the time left until recharge is needed, and when it is being recharged, how long it will take to fully charge.

Abstract: A portable battery charger that is powered by a gasoline, diesel, or propane engine. The portable device incorporates a recoil or electric starter and an engine throttle lever that can be used to vary the RPM of the engine and therefore the voltage/current output of the charger. The charger uses a permanent magnet alternator equipped with a belt tension adjustor arm and a heavy duty diode rectifier. The components of the charger (the engine and the alternator) are positioned on a wheeled, heavy-gauge steel, roll around cart that makes the charger easily portable. The two-wheeled cart includes an extended handle, allowing the user to move and steer the charger into position for use. Positioned on this handle is a control box with an anti-spark keyed switch that blocks any charging current from traveling through the charging cables until the switch is thrown. This control facilitates the safe hook-up of the charging clamps while the charger (engine) is running.

Abstract: An electrical extension lead comprising: an electrical cable having a first end connected to a plug socket arrangement for supplying electrical to electrical devices, and a second end connected to an electrical plug for connection to an electrical mains supply, a battery pack charging assembly also connected to the first end of the cable and a battery pack for use with an electrical devices is removably connectable to the battery pack charging assembly for charging, and wherein the plug socket arrangement and the battery pack charging assembly are mounted within a common housing.

Abstract: A polarity protection circuit for a battery booster device is provided. According to an exemplary embodiment, the polarity protection circuit is comprised of solid-state devices. Preferably no mechanical or electro-mechanical devices, such as solenoids are included in the polarity protection circuit. The polarity protection circuit is electrically connected to the battery to be charged and to the boosting battery. The polarity protection circuit prevents current flow between the batteries unless proper polarity is achieved.

Abstract: A portable assembly includes a multi-level housing having a vertically oriented back wall and an elongated rectilinear axle conjoined thereto. The housing further includes an elongated handle having a lower end portion monolithically formed with the back wall. A plurality of rotatable wheels operably communicate with the axle end portions and a plurality of coextensive shelves are conjoined to the back wall. The assembly further includes a mechanism for testing a variety of battery charging systems. The testing mechanism includes a plurality of power receptacles integrally connected to the back wall and spaced above a top one of the shelves. A battery-charger testing device is nested on one of the shelves for testing 48 volt club car power drive chargers. The battery-charger testing device is provided with a plurality of fuses for testing 36 volt and 48 volt circuits respectively.

Abstract: A portable emergency appliance comprises a housing and an integrated power source. A retractable handle extends from the housing between a first position and a second position. Retractable cables are connected to the power source and are removably connectable to the retractable handle, such that the cables are secured by the handle when the handle is in the first position, and are at least partially extended when the handle is in the second position. The cables are then releasable from the handle at the second position, to typically provide further extension and retraction to render service to an external entity. The power source is preferably rechargeable. The emergency appliance may preferably provide a variety of other functions, such as but not limited to AC power, DC power, pressurized air, lighting, tool storage and/or data storage and/or display.

Abstract: A polarity protection circuit for a battery booster device is provided. According to an exemplary embodiment, the polarity protection circuit is comprised of solid-state devices. Preferably no mechanical or electro-mechanical devices, such as solenoids are included in the polarity protection circuit. The polarity protection circuit is electrically connected to the battery to be charged and to the boosting battery. The polarity protection circuit prevents current flow between the batteries unless proper polarity is achieved.

Abstract: A portable battery jump start having a case having soft sides and a soft top cover configured to be selectively closed and opened. The sides of the case are joined to one another by seams that may be taped to become watertight. A first seal is configured for selectively connecting the top cover to the sides. The first seal can include a waterproof zipper. A rigid insert member is disposed inside the case and defines a center compartment, a left compartment and a right end compartment. A battery is snuggly disposed in the center compartment. Each clamp in a pair of electrical clamps is connected to the battery by one of the cables in a pair of cables and stored in one of the end compartments. A control module is disposed in the center compartment and electrically connected to the battery so as to permit selective supply of electricity from the battery to the cables.

Abstract: An apparatus for jumping and charging a remote battery. The apparatus includes a charger, positive and negative charge connectors operable to be connected to the remote battery, an auxiliary battery having positive and negative terminals, and positive and negative jumper connectors separate from the positive and negative charge connectors. The positive and negative jumper connectors are connected to the positive and negative terminals of the auxiliary battery and are operable to be connected to the remote battery. The apparatus further includes a selector responsive to connecting the positive and negative charge connectors to the remote battery and operable to connect the charger to the auxiliary battery when the charge connectors are not connected to the remote battery and to connect the charger to the positive and negative charge connectors to charge the remote battery when the positive and negative charge connectors are connected to the remote battery.

Abstract: Apparatus includes a main body having a function of reducing performance of the apparatus during operation, an AC adapter which is connectable to the main body and supplies power to the main body from a commercial power source, and a rechargeable battery which is connectable to the main body and discharges to supply power to the main body. Apparatus operates without reducing the performance even while the power supplied from the AC adapter is turned off and the power is supplied from the battery during a peak shift period (e.g. mid-day summer where limiting the power supplied by the AC adapter is desirable) in a state where both the AC adapter and the battery are connected to the main body, and thereafter, the power supplied from the AC adapter is turned on and power is supplied to the main body from the AC adapter even during the peak shift period.

Abstract: A portable power source for starting a variety of outdoor power equipment. The portable power source generally includes a housing, an electrochemical power supply, a switch having an ON position with a fixed contact and a START position with a momentary contact, and a connector connected to the switch. The switch may be electrically connected to the electrochemical power supply and, using a cable, the connector is operable to be electrically connected to a starter motor associated with the outdoor power equipment. Actuation of the switch to the START position electrically connects the electrochemical power supply to the starter motor. The portable power source is adapted to be used as a primary power source and an auxiliary power source. The portable power source also includes an integrated light, an air compressor, a power supply indicator, and one or more inputs and outputs to receive and provide direct current (“DC”) and alternating current (“AC”).

Abstract: The invention herein relates to a non-polarity charging device wherein the positive/negative sensing terminals are connected to the battery. When in correct polarity, current flows from positive output clamp output to the battery positive terminal and back to the charging device through the negative output clamp, otherwise, the positive voltage flows through the negative output clamp to the battery positive terminal. Also, even when the battery voltage is below the sensor reading threshold, the manual switch at both battery terminals force-feed electric current through the correct polarity conducting circuit, with positive voltage at the positive clamp output, supplying positive current to effect a complete charging circuit. When the polarity sensing is completed and charging begins, a current indicator circuit lights up to reflect that the charging device is functioning.

Abstract: A method for starting an internal combustion engine coupled with a cranking motor, which is coupled with an electrical battery, includes connecting a capacitor with an electrical system of another engine or battery, wherein the capacitor is disconnected from the cranking motor coupled with the first engine, and charging the capacitor with the electrical system of the other engine or battery. The method further includes connecting the capacitor with the cranking motor coupled with the first engine, at a time when the first battery has insufficient charge to start the first engine, and starting the first engine with the cranking motor and the capacitor. A portable rapid-delivery power supply apparatus for providing a supplementary source of power to an electrical system includes a capacitor having connectors adapted to be connected to the electrical system and a charging device coupled to the capacitor, wherein the charger is powered by alternating current.

Abstract: There is disclosed a rechargeable battery comprising a solid state material (1) having formed therein a plurality of elongate holes with elongate conductors (2) located within the holes, a first pair of electrodes (3) formed or located on generally oppposed sides of the solid state material (1) in a first spatial orientation and a second pair of electrodes (4) formed or located on generally opposed sides of the solid state material (1) in a second spatial orientation different from the first, such that when a DC voltage is applied across the first pair of electrodes (3), an electric field is formed and induces electrostatic charges in the elongate conductors (2), thereby generating a voltage across the second pair of electrodes (4).

Abstract: An electromechanical switching device ensures automatic selected polarity interconnection between terminals of two power sources. A double pole double throw (DPDT) switch has three pairs of contacts. A first pair of leads connect to two pairs of contacts in a manner that reverses polarity when switched, while a second pair of leads connect to the other pair of contacts. A switch controller employs a plurality of coils in electrical communication with the two pairs of leads. The coils are arranged and configured so that, when the two pairs of leads are connected to the respective power sources, the coils cause an actuator to move the switch automatically into the correct polarity state regardless of the connections of the leads. The invention is described as a battery jumper cable and to automatically connect like terminals of a pair of batteries. The invention encompasses the method of this device.

Abstract: A jump start protection circuit having a normally open switch and a resistor positioned in parallel intermediate to a battery and a jump start post. A controller manipulates the switch between an open position and closed position, the closed position connects the jump start post to the battery and the open position disconnects the jump start post from the battery. The controller measures voltages at the battery and jump start post and is capable of receiving one or more additional inputs. The controller closes the switch when acceptable jump start conditions are detected. The controller can open the switch or maintain the switch in an open position. The jump start circuit provides protection against attempts to charge a battery with incorrect polarity connections and attempts to charge a battery from a potentially hazardous higher voltage power source.

Abstract: The present invention includes a portable power supply having a housing that encloses a battery. Booster cables protrude from the housing and are electrically connected to the battery. Electrical clamps are attached to the booster cables and may connect to electrical terminals. The housing may include a clamp anchor integral thereto. The clamp anchor may include an anchor base and an anchor finger, wherein the anchor finger is generally perpendicular to the anchor base. The electrical clamp may be secured on the clamp anchor. The present invention further includes a booster cable with an electrical clamp that has a clamp cover rotatably mounted on the electrical clamp. The clamp cover may cover some of the electrically conductive portions of the electrical clamp and/or provide additional positioning of the electrical clamp on the clamp anchor.