UTILITY VEHICLE

Utility vehicles include ground engaging members, a frame supported by the ground engaging members, a motor supported by the frame operably coupled to the ground engaging members, and a battery configured to provide electrical power to the motor. The battery may be removable and configured to be easily charged by outside power sources such as generators and external batteries. A charger may be configured to receive instructions to charge the battery using a specific charger operating characteristic. The vehicle may also include a variety of accessory ports configured to electrically couple to accessories that use AC or DC power.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to vehicles having swappable batteries, charging methods for such batteries, and relevant vehicle architectures.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Electric utility and recreational vehicles often face constraints not otherwise known by larger vehicles including vehicle range, weight, terrain traversed, and others. The present disclosure reflects a utility vehicle with swappable batteries, charging apparatuses and associated applications and methods of use.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a utility vehicle is provided. The utility vehicle comprises a pair of front ground engaging members, a pair of rear ground engaging members, and a frame supported by the ground engaging members. The utility vehicle further comprises a user interface supported by the frame, and the user interfaces is configured to receive a user input. An electric motor is supported by the frame, and a battery is removably coupled to the frame, the battery being electrically coupled to the electric motor. A charger is removably coupled to the frame and the charger is configured to be electrically coupled to the battery. An electronic controller is communicably coupled to the user interface and the charger, and a memory is storing a set of instructions. The controller is configured to operate the charger according to the first set of instructions based upon the user input at the user interface.

Additionally, the set of instructions includes a charger operating characteristic and the charger operating characteristic is one of a maximum charge rate and a charger ramp rate. Further, the charger is configured to be electrically coupled to an external power source. The controller is configured to receive a power characteristic from the external power source and the controller is further configured to alter the charger operating characteristic based on the power characteristic.

In various embodiments, the charger is configured to coupled to a generator and the generator is configured to provide an input power with an input voltage and an input frequency. The set of instructions includes a load shedding flag configured to have one of a first status and a second status and the controller is configured to monitor at least one of the input voltage and the input frequency and alter a charger operating characteristic based upon the load shedding flag having the first status and at least one of the input voltage or input frequency decreasing below a threshold.

In various embodiments, the charger is configured to couple to a generator and the generator is configured to provide an input power with an input voltage and an input frequency. The set of instructions includes a load shedding flag configured to have a first status and a second status and the controller is configured to monitor at least one of the input voltage and the input frequency. The controller is further configured to alter a charger operating characteristic based upon the load shedding flag having the first status and at least one of the input voltage or input frequency decreasing by a threshold amount.

In various embodiments, the controller is configured to receive a location of the vehicle from a location determiner and the controller is further configured to alter a charger operating characteristic based upon the location of the vehicle.

In various embodiments, the utility vehicle further comprises an accessory power supply removably coupled from the vehicle, and the accessory power supply is further configured to supply both AC power and the DC power.

In various embodiments, the utility vehicle further comprises an accessory expansion assembly separably coupled to the vehicle, and the accessory expansion assembly is electrically coupled to the battery assembly and configured to provide DC power to a plurality of accessories.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a recreational vehicle is provided. The recreational vehicle comprising a power pack comprising at least one ground engaging member. The power pack further comprising a power pack frame supported by the at least one ground engaging member and a motor supported by the power pack frame. The motor is configured to provide power to the at least one ground engaging member. The power pack further comprises a battery supported by the power pack frame and the battery is electrically coupled to the motor. The recreational vehicle further comprises a vehicle frame removably coupled to the power pack and a seat supported by the vehicle frame and the seat is configured to support an operator.

In various embodiments of the recreational vehicle, the power pack is a first power pack and the first power pack is positioned generally at a front of the vehicle. The recreational vehicle further comprises a second power pack positioned generally at a rear of the vehicle. The second power pack comprises a second power pack frame supported by at least one rear ground engaging member and a second motor supported by the second power pack frame. The second motor is configured to provide power to the at least one rear ground engaging member, and a second battery is supported by the second power pack frame. The second battery is electrically coupled to the second motor.

In various embodiments of the recreational vehicle, the seat is located longitudinally intermediate the first power pack and the second power pack. In various embodiments, the recreational vehicle comprises an electronic controller, and the electronic controller is electrically coupled to each of the first power pack and the second power pack. In various embodiments, the power pack comprises a third battery electrically coupled to the battery of the power pack.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a utility vehicle is provided. The utility vehicle comprises a plurality of ground engaging members and a frame supporting the plurality of ground engaging members. The utility vehicle also comprises an operator area supported by the frame and a seat positioned within the operator area. The utility vehicle also comprises a powertrain, the powertrain comprising a motor supported by the frame, and the motor is configured to provide power to at least one of the plurality of ground engaging members. The utility vehicle comprises a charger electrically coupled to the battery and the charger has a charging input. The charger is configured to operate with a charging characteristic and the charging input is configured to receive a power input from an external power source. The utility vehicle also comprises a controller being operable to alter the charging characteristic of the charger and a memory configured to store instructions. The instructions, when executed by the controller, causes the controller to receive a power characteristic from the external power source based upon the power input, determine an operating charging characteristic based upon the power characteristic, and operate the charger with the operating charging characteristic.

In various embodiments, the operating charging characteristic is one of a maximum charge rate and a charging ramp rate. Further, the charging ramp rate is operably in a plurality of modes. In various embodiments, the utility vehicle further comprises a user interface, and the user interface includes a screen layout configured with a first input. The first input is configured to alter a maximum charge rate and a second input configured to alter a charging ramp rate.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a utility vehicle is provided. The utility vehicle comprises a plurality of ground engaging members and a frame supported by the plurality of ground engaging members. An operator area is supported by the frame and a seat is positioned within the operator area and a user interface is configured with an input. The utility vehicle further comprises a powertrain, the powertrain comprising a motor supported by the frame. The motor is configured to provide power to at least one of the plurality of ground engaging members. The powertrain also comprises a battery supported by the frame and the battery is electrically coupled to the motor. A charger is electrically coupled to the battery and the charger has a charging input and is configured to operate with a charging characteristic. The charging input is configured to receive a power input from an external power source. The powertrain further comprises a controller being operable to alter the charging characteristic of the charger and a memory configured to store instructions. The instructions, when executed by the controller, cause the controller to receive a user input from the user interface, determine an operating charging characteristic based upon the user input, and operate the charger with the operating charging characteristic.

In various embodiments, the operating charging characteristic is one of a maximum charge rate and a charging ramp rate. Further, the charging ramp rate is operable in a plurality of modes. In various embodiments, the user interface further includes a screen layout configured with a first input configured to alter a maximum charge rate and a second input configured to alter a charging ramp rate.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a utility vehicle is provided. The utility vehicle comprises a plurality of ground engaging members and a frame is supported by the plurality of ground engaging members. The utility vehicle further comprises a powertrain configured to supply power to at least one of the plurality of ground engaging members. The powertrain comprises a motor supported by the frame and the motor is operably coupled to at least one of the plurality of ground engaging members. A battery is supported by the frame and a controller is coupled between the battery and the motor. The utility vehicle further comprises a charger removably coupled to the vehicle and the charger is electrically coupled to the battery. An accessory port is removably and electrically coupled to the battery, the accessory port is configured to electrically couple to an accessory battery. Further, the battery and the accessory battery are configured to be bidirectionally coupled.

In various embodiments, the utility vehicle further comprises a cover configured conceal at least a portion of the battery. In various embodiments, the utility vehicle also includes an external power bank configured to provide either AC power or DC power to the vehicle.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery assembly is provided. The battery assembly comprises a housing and a plurality of cells within the housing. The housing comprises a first side, a second side, a third side, and fourth side. The first side and the third side extend in a first direction and the second side and the fourth side extend in a second direction, the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction. The battery assembly further comprises a cover coupled to the top of the housing and a retention member coupled between one side extent of the cover and an opposite side extent of the cover. The retention member extends along a center of the cover in a battery width direction. A charging port is positioned on the cover, the charging port positioned on one side of the strap. The battery assembly further comprises a battery level indicator and a vent, and at least one of the battery level indicator and the bent are positioned on the cover on the other side of the strap.

In various embodiments, the battery level indicator and the vent are positioned adjacent each other. In various embodiments, the battery assembly further comprises a base coupled to each of the first side, the second side, the third side, and the fourth side. The base extends generally parallel to the cover and the fourth side includes a recessed portion extending between the cover and the base. Further, the fourth side includes a T-slot extending between the cover and the base.

In various embodiments, the charging port is configured to mate with a connector, and the connector comprises a plurality of accessory pins and a pair of primary voltage pins positioned within a pair of recesses. At least a first portion of the plurality of accessory pins are on a first side of a line extending through the pair of primary voltage pins and the remainder of the plurality of accessory pins are on a second side of the line extending through the pair of primary voltage pins. Further, the first portion of the plurality of accessory pins comprise a single ground pin. Further, the recesses of the connector comprise a generally arced circumference with at least one pointed portion, and the at least one pointed portion is positioned on the first side of the line extending through the pair of primary voltage pins.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, which are described below. The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present disclosure to the precise form disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings. Therefore, no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

The terms “couples”, “coupled”, “coupler”, and variations thereof are used to include both arrangements wherein two or more components are in direct physical contact and arrangements wherein the two or more components are not in direct contact with each other (e.g., the components are “coupled” via at least a third component, but yet still cooperates or interact with each other).

In some instances throughout this disclosure and in the claims, numeric terminology, such as first, second, third, and fourth, is used in reference to various operative transmission components and other components and features. Such use is not intended to denote an ordering of the components. Rather, numeric terminology is used to assist the reader in identifying the component being referenced and should not be narrowly interpreted as providing a specific order of components.

In the present disclosure, with reference toFIG.1, a recreational or utility vehicle2with an electric powertrain40will be described. Vehicle2includes a frame10supported by a plurality of front ground engaging members4, including a front left ground engaging member4aand a front right ground engaging member4b, and a plurality of rear ground engaging members5, including a rear left ground engaging member5aand a rear right ground engaging member5bpositioned about a longitudinal centerline30. Ground engaging members4a,4b,5a,5bmay be tires, skis, tracks, or other suitable ground engaging members configured to support frame10. In various embodiments, vehicle2includes a single front ground engaging member4and/or a single rear ground engaging member5or a single ground engaging member may be provided along the right side and the left side of vehicle2. In the present embodiment, vehicle2includes a pair of front ground engaging members4a,4band a pair of rear ground engaging members5a,5b. Vehicle2also includes a seat (not shown) supported by frame10within an operator area (not shown). Vehicle2may also include a steering assembly (not shown) configured to steer at least one of ground engaging members4a,4b,5a,5b. In various embodiments, vehicle2includes an upper frame assembly (not shown) configured to surround the operator area. In some examples, a layout of vehicle2may be the same or similar to the vehicle layout described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,960,941, issued Mar. 30, 2021, titled “VEHICLE,” the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

Powertrain40is supported by frame10and in the present embodiment is configured as an electric powertrain with at least one motor assembly60and one battery assembly50. Motor assembly60includes an electric motor61and a motor controller62. Electric motor61may be an AC Motor, a DC motor, or a brushless DC motor. In the present embodiment, vehicle2comprises a single electric motor61positioned longitudinally intermediate front ground engaging members4a,4band rear ground engaging members5a,5b. In the present embodiment, motor61is positioned along longitudinal centerline30and rearward of battery assembly50. Motor controller62is electrically coupled to motor61and configured to control a motor characteristic of motor61. Motor controller62may be integrated into a housing (not shown) of motor61or may otherwise be physically separated from motor61. In various embodiments, the motor characteristic may be a motor speed, a torque output, a motor acceleration, a current input to the motor, a voltage input to the motor, or other motor characteristic.

Battery assembly50is electrically coupled to motor assembly60by a plurality of electrical cables (not shown). Battery assembly50and motor assembly60may be placed adjacent each other to minimize the length of the electrical cables. Battery assembly50includes at least one vehicle battery, or traction battery51and a battery controller, or battery management unit (BMU)52. Battery assembly50may be placed in various locations on vehicle2. In the present embodiment, battery assembly50is positioned longitudinally intermediate front ground engaging members4a,4band rear ground engaging members5a,5b. In various embodiments, battery assembly50is positioned laterally intermediate front ground engaging members4a,4bor laterally intermediate rear ground engaging members5a,5b. Additional disclosure regarding electric powertrain layouts can be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 17/587,721, filed Jan. 28, 2022, titled “YOUTH ELECTRIC VEHICLE”, attorney docket no. “PLR-02-29200.02P-US”, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

In various embodiments, battery assembly50includes a first battery51aand a second battery51b. Batteries51a,51bmay be electrically coupled in series or in parallel depending upon desired performance characteristics of vehicle2. In various embodiments, vehicle2may be configured to operate in a first mode or configuration with only first battery51aelectrically coupled to motor assembly60and may also be configured to operate in a second mode or configuration with only second battery51belectrically coupled to motor assembly60. That is, a user may have access to both batteries51aand51b, and when first battery51ais fully discharged, the user or BMU52may switch to power supplied from battery51bso that the user can continue to operate vehicle2while the fully discharged first battery51acharges.

Powertrain40also includes a charger75electrically coupled to battery assembly50. In various embodiments, charger75may also be coupled to a plurality of power draw components230. As shown inFIG.3, charger75includes a rectifier76, an inverter77, and a converter78. In various embodiments, charger75may only include rectifier76. In various embodiments, charger75includes rectifier76and inverter77. In various embodiments, charger75includes rectifier76and converter78. Rectifier76may be a half-wave or full-wave rectifier configured to rectify an AC voltage to a DC voltage to then be stored by battery assembly50. In various embodiments, the inverter77may be used within charger75so that battery assembly50can invert a DC voltage stored in battery assembly50to an AC voltage to be used by an AC accessory231(FIG.3). In various embodiments, charger75is configured with a converter78to raise or lower the voltage passing through charger75. In various example, a DC accessory237is electrically coupled to charger75and a higher voltage from battery assembly50is converted by converter78to be used by DC accessory237. Vehicle2also includes a controller55operably coupled to charger75, battery assembly50and motor assembly60. Controller55may also be coupled directly or indirectly to each of power draw components230.

In various embodiments, battery assembly50includes a rectifier76, an inverter77, and a converter78. Battery assembly50may be configured to directly provide AC voltage or DC voltage to power draw components230. Battery assembly50outputs DC voltage through rectifier76to provide an AC voltage to AC accessory231. Battery assembly50outputs a DC voltage at a first voltage level through converter78and provides a DC voltage at a second voltage level to various power draw components230.

Referring again toFIG.1, vehicle2includes a shiftable transmission68, a rear drive65and a front drive70. Shiftable transmission68is operably coupled to motor61and configured with a plurality of gear ratios. In various embodiments, shiftable transmission68has a reverse gear, a park gear, a forward high gear, and a forward low gear. In various other embodiments, shiftable transmission68includes a forward medium gear. In various embodiments, shiftable transmission68includes an electronic shift system. Additional disclosure regarding an electronic shift system can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 9,746,070, issued Aug. 29, 2017, titled “ELECTRONIC CONTROL OF A TRANSMISSION,” the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. In various embodiments, vehicle2does not include shiftable transmission68and motor61is directly coupled to front drive70.

Rear drive65is positioned laterally intermediate rear ground engaging members5a,5band is coupled to motor61by a rear propshaft63. In the present embodiment, rear drive65includes a single input and a pair of outputs. Propshaft63extends between the single input and motor61. Further, on each side of vehicle2, a halfshaft64extends between one of the outputs of rear drive65and one of the rear ground engaging members5a,5b. That is, a power path is created between motor61and rear ground engaging members5a,5bby power transferred to rear propshaft63from electric motor61, to rear drive65from rear propshaft63, to rear halfshafts64from rear drive65, and to rear ground engaging members5a,5bfrom rear halfshafts64. Front drive70is positioned laterally intermediate front ground engaging members4a,4band is coupled to motor61by a front propshaft66. In the present embodiment, front drive70includes a single input and a pair of outputs. Front propshaft66extends between the single input and motor61. Further, a pair of front halfshafts67extend between each of the outputs of front drive70and each of the front ground engaging members4a,4b. That is, a power path is created between motor61and front ground engaging members4a,4bby power transferred to front propshaft66from electric motor61, to front drive70from front propshaft66, to front halfshafts67from front drive70, and to front ground engaging members4a,4bfrom front halfshafts67. Rear drive65and front drive70may be open differentials, electronic locking differentials, a manually locking differential, or a limited-slip differential.

Vehicle2also includes a front suspension (not shown) and a rear suspension (not shown) configured to couple ground engaging members4a,4b,5a,5bto frame10. Front suspension may be a dual A-arm suspension, a strut suspension, or another type of suspension. Rear suspension may be a dual A-arm suspension, a strut suspension, a trailing arm suspension, or another type of suspension. Additional details regarding vehicle suspension can be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 17/098,185, filed Nov. 13, 2020, titled “VEHICLE,” attorney docket no. “PLR-02-29448.02P-US,” and U.S. Pat. No. 8,613,335, issued Dec. 24, 2013, titled “SIDE-BY-SIDE VEHICLE,” the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

Power Packs

Now referring toFIG.2, a vehicle101will be described. Vehicle101may be similarly shaped as vehicle2and may also operate similarly to vehicle2. Vehicle101may also comprise substantially the same parts as vehicle2, however, the parts may be rearranged and/or relocated from the orientation of vehicle.

Vehicle101includes a rear powerpack102and a front powerpack103. Each of rear powerpack102and front powerpack103supports a frame110. Illustratively, rear powerpack102includes a pair of rear ground engaging members105, including a rear left ground engaging member105aand a rear right ground engaging member105band a rear powerpack frame106, and the rear ground engaging members105a,105bare configured to support a rear powerpack frame106. Rear powerpack102includes battery assembly50supported by rear powerpack frame106, and the battery assembly50is positioned laterally intermediate rear ground engaging members105a,105b. Further, rear powerpack102includes a first hub motor161aoperably coupled to rear left ground engaging member105aand a second hub motor161boperably coupled to rear right ground engaging member105b. That is, rear powerpack102is a dual motor powerpack. In various embodiments, rear powerpack102only includes a first hub motor161aand may be a single motor powerpack. In the present embodiment, first hub motor161ais positioned adjacent the rear left ground engaging member105aof the pair of rear ground engaging members105and second hub motor161bis positioned adjacent the rear right rear ground engaging member105bof the pair of rear ground engaging members105. First hub motor161areceives electrical power from battery assembly50and then provides power to the first rear ground engaging member105aof the pair of rear ground engaging members105. Second hub motor161breceives electrical power from battery assembly50and provides power to the second rear ground engaging member105bof the pair of rear ground engaging members105. Each motor161a,161bis coupled to a motor controller162configured to control a motor characteristic of the motor161a,161b. In the present embodiment, rear powerpack102is removably coupled to frame110. That is, rear powerpack102may be coupled to frame110through a removable clamp, fastener, splined interface, pin, latch or plurality thereof.

Front powerpack103includes a pair of front ground engaging members104, including a front left ground engaging member104aand a front right ground engaging member104band a front powerpack frame107, and the front ground engaging members104a,104bare configured to support the front powerpack frame107. Front powerpack103includes a battery assembly50supported by front powerpack frame107, and the battery assembly50is positioned intermediate front ground engaging members104a,104b. Front powerpack103includes a motor161positioned along vehicle centerline30and is configured to provide power to each of the front ground engaging members104a,104bthrough a pair of front halfshafts167. That is, front powerpack103is a single motor powerpack. In various embodiments, motor161of front powerpack103is an axial flux motor with two outputs, and each output extends to one of the pair of front ground engaging members104a,104b. Front powerpack103also includes a motor controller162positioned adjacent motor161configured to control a motor characteristic of motor161. In the present embodiment, front powerpack103is removably coupled to frame110. That is, front powerpack103may be coupled to frame110through a removable clamp, fastener, splined interface, pin, latch or plurality thereof.

In the illustrated configurations, rear powerpack102is a powerpack with a hub motor configuration and front powerpack103is a powerpack with a center motor and axle configuration. In various embodiments, vehicle101may include one powerpack with a hub motor configuration and one powerpack with a center motor/axle configuration, and powerpack102may be position at the front of vehicle101or the rear of vehicle101, and powerpack103is positioned at the other of the front of vehicle101or the rear of vehicle101. In various embodiments, vehicle101may include two powerpacks102or two powerpacks103.

In various embodiments, each of rear powerpack102and front powerpack103includes a charger175. Charger175is electrically coupled to battery51. Powerpacks102,103may be removed from vehicle101and charged at a location apart from vehicle2which may be easier to access. In various embodiments, powerpacks102,103may be charged while they are coupled to vehicle101. In various embodiments, a user may have a plurality of powerpacks102,103and interchange them as desired. Powerpacks102,103may be configured for different applications. In one example, one of powerpacks102,103may be configured for higher torque, lower speed while the other powerpack102,103may be configured for higher speed, lower torque, and a user may interchange powerpacks as desired.

Vehicle101also includes a controller155supported by frame110. Controller155is positioned on vehicle101and is configured to communicate with each of rear powerpack102and front powerpack103to ensure consistent communication between powerpacks102,103. In one embodiment, if one of powerpacks102,103is installed incorrectly, controller155may provide a fault signal to the user, or otherwise prohibit the vehicle from moving. A fault signal may include a noise, a visual notification on a user interface (similar to user interface8of vehicle2) or another signal.

Referring again toFIG.3, charger75is configured to receive electrical power from a generator180, an AC source185, or a DC source190. In some examples, generator180may include the Polaris Power P3200iE Power Portable Inverter Generator available from Polaris Industries Inc., Medina, Minnesota. Generator180may be a generator of any suitable power generation size, including 500 Watts (W), 900 W, 1200 W, 1500 W, 2000 W, 2500 W, 3000 W, 3500 W, 4000 W, 5000 W, 6000 W or greater. Generator180is configured such that a power output is an AC power output or a DC power output. The AC source185may be a power supply from a home plug-in, an additional vehicle, or other type of AC power supply. The DC source190may be a battery, a converter, or other type of DC power supply.

Charger75is electrically coupled to battery assembly50and is optionally coupled to the plurality of power draw components230. The power draw components are comprised of one or more AC drawing components231and one or more DC drawing components235. AC drawing components231may be an accessory which utilizes AC power, such as an AC motor, a refrigerator, a compressor, lights, or other accessory. DC drawing components235include an external battery236, a DC accessory237, electric motor assembly60, or an accessory expansion assembly238. DC accessories237may include lights, portable chargers, speakers, electric power tools such as drills, saws, chain saws, augers, or other DC accessories.

Exportable Power

Vehicle2may also include various ways to expand power input and power output. An exportable power bank, or external battery,250may be removably coupled to vehicle2. Exportable power bank250includes a DC source, or DC power bank251, such as a battery, which can be charged by AC source185passing electrical current through a rectifier252to change the AC current to a DC current before being stored in DC power bank251. In the present embodiment, DC power bank251may be electrically coupled to battery assembly50to provide additional battery capacity to traction battery51(seeFIG.2). In various embodiments, DC power bank251may be electrically coupled to DC drawing components235. Exportable power bank250may also be electrically coupled to AC accessories231. Exportable power bank250includes an inverter253electrically coupled to the DC power bank251configured to alter the DC current from the DC power bank251to a usable AC current so that power within DC power bank251can be used by AC accessories231.

In the present embodiment, exportable power bank250is a separable power supply configured to increase the amount of power available to vehicle2. In one example, exportable power bank250is charged via a wall outlet at home or elsewhere and may be added onto vehicle2if a user would like to increase the power available to vehicle2. Exportable power bank250may be used to increase a speed of vehicle2, a range of vehicle2, a max torque output of vehicle2, or another performance characteristic of vehicle2. Additionally, exportable power bank250may be used to provide power to accessories thus providing an AC power source from vehicle2to power AC accessories, which may otherwise not be available. In one example, exportable power bank250is commensurate in shape, size, and operation to battery51.

In various embodiments, exportable power bank250is chargeable by vehicle2. Battery assembly50may be configured to charge DC power bank251of exportable power bank250so that a user may transfer exportable power bank250from a first vehicle to a second, different vehicle. In various embodiments, a first vehicle2has a fully charged battery assembly50and a second vehicle2has a fully discharged battery assembly50. A user may electrically couple exportable power bank250to the first vehicle2and charge exportable power bank250, and the user may then electrically couple the charged power bank250to the fully discharged second vehicle2to charge the battery assembly50of second vehicle2.

Expandable DC Solution

DC accessory237may be coupled to vehicle2using a DC connection kit. An exemplary DC connection is The Polaris PULSE Bus Bar sold by Polaris Industries Inc., Medina Minnesota. Vehicle2may also comprise an accessory expansion assembly238which increases the number of DC accessories which can be electrically coupled to vehicle2. In various embodiments, accessory expansion assembly238includes one additional accessory slot, two additional accessory slots, three additional accessory slots, four additional accessory slots, five additional accessory slots, six additional accessory slots, seven additional accessory slots, eight additional accessory slots or more additional accessory slots. Accessory expansion assembly238may include a DC/DC converter configured to alter the voltage level provided to each DC accessory237. In various examples, a user may increase the total battery capacity of vehicle2, and a user may desire to increase the number of accessories capable of being powered by battery assembly50of vehicle2. The user may then add accessory expansion assembly238to vehicle2as an aftermarket accessory to increase the number of ports available for DC accessories237.

Accessory expansion assembly238may be hardwired into vehicle2as a part of the DC drawing components235. Accessory expansion assembly238may also be directly coupled to battery assembly50, charger75, or exportable power bank250. In the present embodiment, each of DC accessories237, AC accessories231, and accessory expansion assembly238are communicably coupled to controller55. Controller55is configured to control the power consumption of accessories coupled to vehicle2, including each of DC accessory237, AC accessory231, and the accessory expansion assembly238. In various embodiments, controller55is configured to control (i.e., send and/or receive communication signals) the current level, the voltage level, a powered on/off status, and/or a fault status of each of DC accessory237, AC accessory231, and accessory expansion assembly238. Additional details regarding accessory control can be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 16/560,588, filed Sep. 4, 2019, published as US20200198467A1, titled “MANAGING RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AND ACCESSORIES,” attorney docket no. “PLR-15-26865.03P-US”, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

Vehicle2also includes a user interface8supported by the frame10. User interface8includes a display9configured to display a plurality of screen layouts which may include various information, such as vehicle speed, suspension status, brake status, G-force information, steering angle, group information, geographic information, battery level, battery capacity, battery discharge rate, charge rate, charge mode, or other information. User interface8also includes a plurality of inputs12. Inputs12may be a hard button, a soft button, a switch, a lever, a knob, or other type of input. Further, a communications unit260is communicably coupled to the user interface8. Communications unit260may communicate over BLTE (Bluetooth Low Energy), WiFi, a cellular network, a vehicle-to-vehicle network, or another type of communication. Communications unit260is configured to receive data (e.g., information, instructions or the like) from a mobile device261, a cellular network262, a server263, or a vehicle264. In various embodiments, communications unit260and/or controller55are integral with user interface8. Inputs12may be used to control a motor characteristic, alter a battery discharge rate, alter a battery charge rate, initiate communication, control an AC accessory231, control a DC accessory237or alter another characteristic of vehicle2. Inputs12may also be used to cycle through various screen layouts, select soft buttons on display9, or adjust a volume of a speaker system, for example. Additional details regarding display9of vehicle2can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 9,324,195, filed Feb. 26, 2014, issued Apr. 26, 2016, titled “RECREATIONAL VEHICLE INTERACTIVE TELEMETRY, MAPPING, AND TRIP PLANNING SYSTEM”, attorney docket no. “PLR-15-25635.03P-US,” the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

In the present embodiment, external battery, or accessory battery236may be a battery similar to battery51or may be another type of battery. External battery236may be a battery used in accessories such as a removable tool battery. In various embodiments, external battery236is a deep cycle battery commonly used in automotive vehicles, recreational vehicles, or other types of vehicles. External battery236may be electrically coupled to vehicle2at the accessory expansion assembly238. In various embodiments, external battery236may be electrically coupled to vehicle2at charger75. External battery236is electrically coupled to battery51when battery51is installed on vehicle2and external battery236is electrically coupled to vehicle2.

Still referring toFIG.3, vehicle2also includes a Global Positioning System (GPS), or location determiner,56configured to determine a geographical location of vehicle2. In various embodiments, GPS56is integral with user interface8. Further, vehicle2includes a telematics control unit (TCU)270operably coupled to controller55. TCU270is configured to connect to a cloud network271. Cloud network271may be accessible by a user of vehicle2, another vehicle, a third party, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or another organization. Cloud network271may send instructions or information to vehicle2or may receive instructions or information from vehicle2. Instructions or information may include fault codes, direction instructions, battery capacity information, battery discharge information, battery health information, motor health information, motor speed, motor temperature, battery temperature, charger information, or other vehicle information. Additional information regarding the use of telematics control unit270and vehicle connectivity can be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 17/506,249, filed Oct. 20, 2021, titled “VEHICLE COMMUNICATION AND MONITORING,” attorney docket no. “PLR-886-29463.03P-US”, the entire disclosure of which is expressly disclosed herein by reference.

Battery Features and Connector

In the present embodiment, it is desirable to have a battery51that is lightweight, easily transportable, power dense, and user friendly. Now referring toFIGS.4-6, battery51will be described in greater detail. Battery51is generally in the shape of a rectangular prism and configured to store electrical energy. Battery51includes a housing200with a first wall200A, a second wall200B, a third wall200C, and a fourth wall200D. Battery51includes a plurality of cells (not shown) configured to store and discharge electrical energy. The cells may be made of any suitable chemical composition sufficient to store energy and discharge energy for use by vehicle2. Battery51may be a lithium-ion battery, an alkaline battery, a lead acid battery, a zinc carbon battery, a lithium cobalt battery, or other suitable battery chemistry. Housing200also includes a cover220and a base240each configured to couple to each of first wall or side200A, second wall or side200B, third wall or side200C, and fourth wall or side200D. First wall200A and third wall200C are positioned parallel to each other, and second wall200B and fourth wall200D extend between first wall200A and third wall200C. Each of cover220and base240are coupled to each of first wall200A, second wall200B, third wall200C, and fourth wall200D with a plurality of fasteners221. Further, cover220and base240extend generally parallel to each other. In the present embodiment, one of the walls, namely fourth wall200D, is configured with a plurality of features, which will be described in greater detail herein. Battery51has a height201extending in a first direction, a width202extending in a second direction, and a depth203extending in a third direction.

In the present embodiment, three of the walls, namely, first wall200A, second wall200B, and third wall200C are configured as flat surfaces without features. In the present embodiment, fourth wall200D includes a plurality of features including a first T-slot215A, a second T-slot215B, and a recessed portion210. Illustratively, each of the first T-slot215A, the second T-slot215B and the recessed portion210extend the entire height of fourth wall200D between cover220and base240. T-slots215extend inwardly from an outer face212and may be used as a mounting point on battery51. T-slots215may be used to mount badging, emblems, a separate cover, or other type of accessory to battery51. A ramped portion211extends downwardly from outer face212to recessed portion210. Illustratively, battery51has a depth204taken at the recessed portion210. Illustratively, depth204is less than depth203. Recessed portion210is configured as a poka-yoke feature or a registration feature. That is, recessed portion210may provide a registration feature for when battery51is placed into vehicle2so that battery51may only be placed within vehicle2in a single orientation, therefore, battery51may not be incorrectly placed within vehicle2. A receiving volume (not shown) in vehicle2may have three flat surfaces corresponding to first wall200A, second wall200B, and third wall200C and the receiving volume may have a fourth surface with a projection feature (not shown, congruent to recess210) configured to receive fourth wall200D. In the present embodiment, battery51may only be placed within the receiving volume in one orientation. In various embodiments, battery51may include a plurality of registration features that may be similar to recess210.

Battery51is configured for easy insertion into and removal from vehicle2. Vehicle2may be configured to hold a single battery, a pair of batteries, three batteries, or more batteries. Multiple batteries51may be electrically coupled in parallel or in series depending on the desired performance of vehicle2. In one example, batteries51are configured in series to increase the overall voltage available to vehicle2. In another example, batteries51are configured in parallel to increase the overall current available to vehicle2.

Still referring toFIGS.4-6, battery51includes a strap, or retention member222extending across cover220. Strap222includes a first end222A and a second end222B. Strap222is coupled to cover220adjacent fourth wall200D at first end222A and further coupled to cover220adjacent second wall200B at second end222B. Strap222is generally aligned along a center of the width202of battery51. In various embodiments, strap222comprises a rubber overmold handle positioned intermediate first end222A and second end222B. Battery51also includes a charge port350positioned on cover220. Illustratively, charge port350is positioned on one side of strap222in the second direction. In various embodiments, charge port350may be located on any suitable location on battery51, such as first wall200A, second wall200B, third wall200C, fourth wall200D, or base240. In the present embodiment, charge port350is placed on cover350so that it is accessible to a user of the vehicle2when battery51is placed within vehicle2. Battery51also includes a vent225positioned on cover220. Vent225is configured to release gases within the housing200. In various embodiments, when the gases in the housing200reach a certain pressure, vent225releases them to equalize and/or normalize pressure relative to an ambient pressure external to battery51.

Battery51also includes a state of charge (SOC) indicator226. In the present embodiment, SOC indicator226is positioned adjacent vent225. SOC indicator226includes an input227and a plurality of indicator lights228. In the present embodiment, indicator lights228are linearly aligned and each represent a portion of the battery charge level. In the present embodiment, SOC indicator226includes five indicator lights228, each representative of 20% battery charge level. That is, if one indicator light228is turned on, battery51has 20% charge, if two indicator lights228are turned on, battery51has 40% charge, if three indicator lights228are turned on, battery51has 60% charge, if four indicator lights228are turned on, battery51has 80% charge, and if all five indicator lights228are turned on, battery51has 100% charge. In various embodiments, SOC indicator226may have fewer or more indicator lights228. When a user desires to see a state of charge of battery51, the user may press input227which will illuminate the appropriate number of indicators228to display the charge level of vehicle2. In various embodiments, a user may press input227in a unique manner (e.g., long hold press or three presses in rapid succession) and SOC indicator226may display a unique arrangement of lights using indicators228which represent unique fault codes.

In the present embodiment, each of charge port350, vent225, strap222and SOC indicator226are positioned on cover220so that a user may easily access or view these features when battery51is inserted into vehicle2. Additionally, each of exportable power bank250, vent225, strap222, and indicator226may be placed so that they are easily accessible or viewable regardless of what type of vehicle battery51is placed in.

In various embodiments, battery51may be configured with a cover, or wrap (not shown), configured to cover, or conceal, at least a portion of battery51. The wrap may be made of a flame retardant material. In the present embodiment, battery51comprises, generally, six sides, and the wrap may cover five sides of battery51and provide one open side to allow gases or fluids to exit out a desired direction in the event of a fault within vehicle2or battery51. In the present embodiment, the open side is directed away from a user of the vehicle2. In various embodiments, the wrap is configured to cover four sides, three sides, two sides, or only one side of battery51. In the present embodiment, the wrap is constructed as a two-dimensional pattern (i.e., 2-D box template/pattern) and is wrapped around battery51and coupled together using hook and loop or other removable connectors. In various embodiments, the wrap is constructed as an open volume and the wrap is placed around battery51. In various embodiments, the wrap is sewn together. In yet other embodiments, the wrap is coupled together using magnets, or clasps, or other fasteners.

Now referring toFIGS.7-10, it is desirable to have a robust connection solution to electrically couple together motor assembly60, battery assembly50, charger75, and various sources180,185,190. A connector should be able to transfer sufficient power, withstand a high number of connection cycles, and endure harsh conditions while still operating appropriately. In the present embodiment, charge port350on battery51is congruent with (i.e., able to mate with) a connecting pin pattern320of a connector300. Connecting pin pattern320includes a pair of recessed volumes321each configured to house a primary voltage pin322. Connecting pin pattern320also includes a ground pin receiver324and a plurality of accessory pin receivers323. Illustratively, connecting pin pattern320is a 2+1+5 pattern.

In one embodiment, connector300is positioned intermediate any of generator180, AC source185, DC source190and charger75. In another embodiment, connector300is positioned intermediate any of generator180, AC source185, DC source190and battery51. In various embodiments, connector300is positioned intermediate charger75and battery51. In the present embodiment, primary voltage pins322are configured to pass the high voltage power from the connector350to either charger75or directly to battery51. One of the pair of primary voltage pins322is configured to pass a high voltage current to vehicle2, and the other of the pair of primary voltage pins322is a neutral pin configured to provide a path back from vehicle2. Ground pin receiver324is configured to provide a redundant safety connection in the event of a short-circuit event. Illustratively, ground pin receiver324is on one side of a line325intersecting the middle of each of primary voltage pin322. Further, each of accessory pin receivers323are positioned on the other side of line325from ground pin receiver324. Further, recessed volumes321are generally a teardrop shape with a primarily curved outer edge with a single pointed portion326. Illustratively, pointed portion326is positioned on the same side of line325as ground pin receiver324. Illustratively, charging port350is configured with an identically inverted shape to receive the connecting pin pattern320.

Accessory pin receivers323are configured to provide a low voltage input to charger75or battery51. Accessory pin receivers323are configured to transfer data, information, or instructions between generator180, AC source185, DC source190, motor controller62,162and charger75or battery51. Accessory pin receivers323may be used to transfer information such as charge rate, battery capacity, battery charge, battery health, source health, source capacity, source identifier code, or other information. In various embodiments, pin324is also an accessory pin, and in yet other embodiments, any of accessory pins323may be used as the ground pin.

Connector300also includes a protection sleeve302configured to house the electrical wires/inputs to connector300. Further, connector300includes a housing305and a support structure303positioned along protection sleeve302, abutting housing305, configured to support the protection sleeve302when connector300is bending or moving. Connector300also includes an outer protective flange310configured to protect the connecting pin pattern320from debris, liquid, or other intrusive materials.

In the present embodiment, the unique shape and orientation of connecting pin pattern320provides a unique connector for vehicle2, and for charger75and battery51. Connector300is configured only to work with vehicles2,101or associated components and vehicles (not shown).

Referring now toFIG.7A, an alternate connector560is shown. Connector560is coupled to an electrical wire561which extends into a housing562. A protective sleeve563is coupled to housing562and extends over electrical wire561to protect wire561during bending. In the present embodiment, housing comprises a thumb support566configured to provide a leverage point for a user inserting and removing connector560from a plug-in spot/connection port. Housing562also comprises a plurality of directional arrows565configured to direct a user which way to plug-in and secure connector560within connection port350. Housing562also comprises a sleeve564extending forward from housing562to surround a connecting pin pattern570. Sleeve564extends forward and terminates at a lip567.

Connector560also comprises a connecting pin pattern570that is the same as connecting pin pattern320. That is, connecting pin patter570comprises a pair of recesses571in a generally teardrop shaped form with a pointed portion573. A pair of primary voltage pins572are positioned within recesses571. A plurality of accessor pin receivers323are positioned adjacent recesses571and a ground pin receiver574is positioned adjacent recesses571.

In the present embodiment, connector560is a straight-line connector and connector300is a right-angle connector. Each connector560,300is configured to be used in various scenarios based upon space available to a user.

Referring now toFIG.8-10, connection port350and a connection port400will be described in greater detail. Each of connection port350and connection port400are configured to mate, or couple, with connector300and connector560and transfer power and/or information therebetween. In the present embodiment, connection port350is configured to be physically coupled to battery51, and connection port400is configured to be physically coupled to charger75. Connection port350includes a base351with a plurality of apertures351A configured to receive a fastener (not shown) to couple connection port350to battery51. Connection port350also includes a circular flange352positioned at a center of base351. Flange352includes a plurality of registration features353configured to interface with the outer protective flange310. In the present embodiment, registration features353are positioned on an outer surface of flange352. Connection port350also includes a pair of raised primary pin receivers360positioned within the interior of circular flange352. Primary pin receivers360include a pair of apertures363, and primary voltage pins322are configured to extend through apertures363. As shown inFIG.10, when connector300is aligned with connection port350, connecting pin pattern320is configured to align with, and fit within, circular flange352. Further, when properly aligned, primary voltage pins322are configured to align with, and fit within, apertures363and raised primary pin receivers360are configured to align with, and fit within, recessed volumes321. Connection port350also includes a plurality of accessory pins362configured to fit within accessory pin receivers323and a ground pin361configured to fit with ground pin receiver324.

Referring toFIG.8, similar to connection port350, connection port400includes a base401and a circular flange402positioned at a center of base401. Circular flange402includes a plurality of registration features403positioned on an outer surface thereof configured to interface with the other protective flange310. Connection port400further includes a pair of raised primary pin receivers410shaped and sized to fit within recessed volumes321. Primary pin receivers410include a pair of apertures412and the primary voltage pins322are configured to extend through apertures412. Connection port400also includes a plurality of accessory pins (not shown, similar to accessory pins362) and a ground pin (not shown, similar to ground pin361).

Base401includes a pair of arms430positioned on one extent thereof and adjacent to circular flange402, and a second pair of arms441positioned on another extent thereof, opposite of arms430. Arms430include an aperture431configured to receive a pin432. Similarly, arms441include an aperture442configured to receive a pin443. A cover420includes a pin housing422configured to receive pin432. That is, cover420is configured to sit between arms430and rotate about pin432to either reveal or conceal circular flange402. Cover420also includes a latch receiver421positioned on an extent of cover420opposite pin housing422. Cover420is configured to protect flange402, pin receivers410and pins (same as pins361,362) from debris, liquid, or other environmental conditions when connection port400is not in use. Connection port400also includes a latch440positioned intermediate arms441. Latch440rotates about pin443between arms441. Latch440also includes a latch engagement member444with a tip445. Tip445is generally sized and shaped to engage latch receiver421. In the present embodiment, a biasing member446is positioned around pin443and biases latch444in an engaged positioned with tip445rotated downward into engagement with latch receiver421. In the present embodiment, biasing member446is a torsion spring. In various embodiments, biasing member446is another type of spring, a shock absorber, a linear force element, or other type of biasing member.

In the present embodiment, latch receiver421is generally rectangular. In various embodiments, latch receiver421may have a cross-sectional shape which is circular, square, oval, or otherwise shaped to receive tip445. As shown inFIG.8, connection port400displays cover420in an unengaged position, revealing flange402and each of the pins and pin receivers. A user may further rotate cover420downward to conceal flange402and each of the pins and pin receivers, and further allow latch440to rotate downward to allow tip445to engage latch receiver421, thereby locking cover420in an engaged position.

Referring now toFIG.8A, an alternate connection port580will be described. Connection port580comprises a base581with a plurality of apertures581A. Base581supports a sleeve582extending upward from base581. Sleeve582terminates in a lip588and comprises a plurality of registration features583configured to interface with connector300,560. Connection port580comprises a pair of primary pin receivers584positioned within sleeve582. Primary pin receivers584comprise an aperture585configured to receive primary voltage pins572. A plurality of accessory pins (not shown, similar to pins362) and a ground pin (not shown, similar to pin361) are also positioned within sleeve582. That is, the plurality of pins positioned within sleeve582are configured to interface with connecting pin pattern320,570.

Connection port580also comprises an arm586coupled to base581. Arm586supports cover587which is rotatably coupled to arm586about a cover rotation axis590. In the present embodiment, a torsion spring is positioned within arm586to bias cover587in a closed position. In various embodiments, any suitable rotational member may be positioned within arm586to bias cover587. Cover587comprises an internal recess589sized and shaped to receive lip588. The interface between cover587and lip588creates a sealed interface, thereby sealing the plurality of pins positioned within sleeve582. Cover587may be rotated into an open position to reveal the pins, and my be rotated into a closed position to conceal and seal the pins.

Deployable Battery Charger

Referring again toFIG.1, charger75may be removably coupled to vehicle2. As previously described, charger75includes charging port350or charging port400to receive an electrical input from generator180, AC source185, or DC source190. Charger75also includes an electrical output port (not shown) which is configured to output electricity to battery assembly50. The electrical output port is configured to have a high connection life-cycle that is robust, and resistant to harsh conditions such as rain, snow, ice, and mud. In one embodiment, charger75is similarly sized and shaped to a storage container (not shown) and may be interchanged with a storage container when charger75is not coupled to vehicle2.

In one example, a user of vehicle2completes a ride and desires to charge vehicle2. A user attaches a power source generator180, AC source185, or DC source190to charger75and charges battery assembly50. When the batteries51have been sufficiently charged, the user can remove the power source generator180, AC source185, DC source190from charger75and further remove charger75from vehicle2. Charger75is typically heavy, large, and inconvenient, and a benefit is perceived in removing charger75from vehicle2when not in use. When charger75is removed from vehicle2, a storage container, or other useful accessory, may be added to vehicle2. In various embodiments, charger75may be replaced with an accessory mounting structure, a light/illumination structure/accessory, external battery236, exportable power bank250, AC accessory231, DC accessory237, expandable accessory ports238, or other accessory or structure.

In various embodiments, charger75is coupled to vehicle2using an accessory mounting system, a fastener, or other mounting method. Charger75may be configured to automatically electrically couple to battery assembly50when charger75is coupled to vehicle2appropriately. In various embodiments, charger75is coupled to vehicle2using a Polaris Lock & Ride® system, sold by Polaris Industries Inc., Medina, Minnesota. Additional details regarding an accessory mounting system are found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,055,454, filed Jul. 13, 2004, issued Jun. 6, 2006, titled “VEHICLE EXPANSION RETAINER”, and U.S. Application No. 63/357,204, filed Jun. 30, 2022, titled “CARGO AREA FOR UTILITY VEHICLE”, attorney docket no. “PLR-04-29410.01P-US,” the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. In various embodiments, charger75may be mounted in place of, or on top of, a cargo rack for vehicle2,101. In various embodiments, charger75is mounted within a utility bed, under a utility bed, on a floorboard, under a seat, attached to the frame10, or positioned in another spot in vehicle2.

Generator Control

Now referring toFIG.11, vehicle2is configured to be operably coupled to generator180. In one embodiment, generator180is configured to electrically couple to charger75to charge batteries51or otherwise provide power to power draw components230. In various embodiments, generator180may provide an AC voltage or a DC voltage to vehicle2. Generator180may have any suitable level of power production, as previously described.

Generators180have often been used to charge batteries, however, a common difficulty is matching the power draw signature of vehicle2and charger75to the power characteristics, available power, or generator capacity, of generator180. In one example, charger75is configured to charge batteries51at a rate of 1200 W, and if generator180is rated at less than 1200 W, generator180may stall out as a result of attempting to provide more power than it is capable of providing. In another example, if generator180is rated to provide enough power to charger75, a sudden high draw on generator180from charger75may result in generator180stalling out. As such, it is desirable to configure charger75to draw power from generator180at an appropriate rate and to increase the rate at an appropriate ramp rate.

As shown inFIG.11, display9of user interface8includes a generator configuration screen layout450for configuring the interaction between charger75and generator180. In the present embodiment charger75is operably coupled to controller55, and controller55is operably coupled to user interface8. As such, an input to user interface8may provide instructions to charger75through controller55. In the present embodiment, controller55is configured to provide a plurality of charger data between user interface8and charger75. Charger data may include a Max Power (W), or charge rate452, a Charger Ramp Rate462, a Load Shedding Flag475, type of generator180, the amount of power needed at battery51and other data.

As shown inFIG.11, charge rate452may be set at any one of a plurality of preset, discrete values453. In the present embodiment, charge rate452may be 900 W, 1200 W, 1500 W, 2000 W, 2500 W, 3000 W, 3500 W, 4000 W, 5000 W, or 6000 W. In various embodiments, a custom option453A may be provided which allows a user to input another discrete value corresponding to a desired charge rate452. Screen layout450also includes an increasing value indicator455, such as an up arrow, and a decreasing value indicator454, such as a down arrow. In the present embodiment, the user may select value indicators454,455to toggle through the discrete values453provided on screen layout450. In another embodiment, if the user selects the custom charge rate option453A, the user may select value indicators454,455to toggle the value of charge rate452to reach the desired value. In the present embodiment, when a user selects a desired charge rate452, user interface8sends instructions, via controller55, to charger75to limit charging to generator180to the desired charge rate452. In one embodiment, a user will alter the charging rate452to be a value at or below the rated power generation capacity of generator180to not stall generator180by attempting to pull too much power from generator180. In another embodiment, a user may be aware that the generator180is also charging/powering another accessory (e.g., lights), and the user chooses a charging rate452that allows generator180to provide power to charger75and the other accessory without stalling generator180.

Charger ramp rate462is indicative of a rate that the charger75will ramp up the charging rate452from OW to the desired charge rate452. In the present embodiment, screen layout450provides three preset options463, including a ‘Fast’ option463A, ‘Normal’ option463B, and ‘Slow’ option463C for the charger ramp rate462. In various embodiments, screen layout450includes a custom charger ramp rate option463D configured to give the user more control over the ramp rate462. Screen layout450also includes an increasing value indicator465, such as an up arrow, and a decreasing value indicator464, such as a down arrow. In the present embodiment, the user may select the value indicators464,465to toggle through the preset charger ramp rate options463provided on screen layout450. In another embodiment, if the user selects the custom charger rate option463D, the user may select value indicators464,465to toggle the value of charger ramp rate462to reach the desired value. In the present embodiment, when a user selects a desired charger ramp rate462, user interface8sends instructions, via controller55, to charger75to prescribe the charging ramp rate462between generator180and charger75.

Now referring toFIG.12, a graph is shown providing an example charger ramp rate462between generator180and charger75. Illustratively, graph470includes a charger ramp rate462for the ‘Fast’463A, ‘Normal’463B, and ‘Slow’463C options up to a charge rate452of 6000 W. In the present embodiment, in the ‘Fast’463A charger ramp rate mode, the charger ramp rate452is greater than in the ‘Slow’463C or ‘Normal’463B mode. Further, in the ‘Normal’463B mode, charger75reaches the max charger rate452faster than the ‘Slow’463C option. In the present embodiment, the ‘Fast’463A option has a charger ramp rate of 500 W/s, the ‘Normal’463B option has a charger ramp rate of 200 W/s, and the ‘Slow’ option has a charger ramp rate of 50 W/s. In various embodiments, other charger ramp rates are contemplated.

Having a variable charger ramp rate462allows a user to adjust the pace at which charger75is increasing its power draw on generator180. In some instances, if charger75initiates a max charge rate452instantaneously, the quick power draw can cause problems with generator180, can be harsh on components of generator180, and can cause generator180to stall. By initiating a charger ramp rate462, the user is able to pull power at an increasing rate from generator180, up to the max charge rate452, while decreasing the stress on generator180and avoiding imparting high pulse loads on generator180, thereby mitigating stall outs and increasing the life of generator180.

Referring again toFIG.11, screen layout450includes a load shedding input475. Load shedding input475is configured as a toggle button indicating the state of the load shedding feature of vehicle2,101, for example an ON or first state or an OFF or second state. Turning toFIG.13, a process500will be explained, starting with decision block502. Process500asks if the load shedding input475is in an ON state or OFF state. If the load shedding input475is in an OFF state, decision block502continuously repeats itself until it is determined that load shedding input475is in an ON state. When load shedding input475is in an ON state, user interface8sends, via controller55, a load shedding flag, or indicator, to charger75. When charger75receives the load shedding flag, process500moves to block504and charger75monitors an energy input from generator180. Charger75is configured to monitor a voltage output, a current output, and a frequency output. In block504, charger75is configured to determine if a voltage from the generator180has decreased. In various embodiments, block504is configured to determine if input voltage to the charger has decreased by a certain threshold, which may be a discrete value, a percentage of voltage, or another metric. In various embodiments, block504is configured to determine if the input voltage to the charger has decreased to a value lower than a minimum threshold. If it is determined that voltage has not decreased past the threshold in block504, process500moves to block506. Decision block506determines if the frequency of the input power has decreased. In various embodiments, block506is configured to determine if the frequency of the input power has decreased by a certain threshold, which may be a discrete value, a percentage of frequency, or another metric. In other embodiments, block506is configured to determine if the frequency of the input power has decreased to a value lower than a minimum threshold. If it is determined that frequency has not decreased past the threshold in block506, process500moves back to the start of the process.

If it is determined that, in either block504or block506, the voltage or frequency has fallen below a threshold, or other value, process500moves to block508where charger75will start the load shedding process. When it is determined that a voltage or frequency of the input power coming from generator180is dropping below a threshold, or other value, this may be indicative that generator180cannot keep up with the requested power. As such, it is beneficial to institute a load shedding process, where charger75may request less power so that the demand on generator180is decreased. This process will decrease the likelihood that generator180will experience a stalling event or other loss of power event. Load shedding in block508will instruct charger75to request a lower amount of overall power from generator180until voltage and frequency, in blocks504and506, respectively, return to a state higher than the previously described thresholds. In various embodiments, in the load shedding process of block508, charger75is configured to decrease the requested power input by a percentage of the total power requested. In yet other embodiments, charger75is configured to decrease the requested power input linearly until voltage and frequency return to value at or above the previously described thresholds. In one embodiment, if generator180is charging vehicle2and a user electrically couples an additional accessory to generator180, the overall capacity of generator180is reduced, and when controller55instructs charger75to complete load shedding, charger75will decrease the requested power from generator180to better match the available power from generator180.

Referring again toFIG.11, screen layout450includes an input480configured to allow a user to select a generator from a list of generators481(FIG.13). As shown inFIG.13, screen layout478displays the list of generators481, which includes a plurality of selectable generators482that have been previously used with vehicle2. In various embodiments, list of generators481is populated by mobile device261, cellular network262, server263, or vehicle264. As shown inFIG.14, the first generator180, ‘Polaris 3000 W’ is selected, and each selectable generator482has a profile490which may be displayed alongside list of generators481on screen layout478. Profile490includes the selected generator482, an image of the generator185, a default charge rate452, a default charger ramp rate462, and a default load shedding flag state275. In various embodiments, a user may select any aspect of the profile490, including image485, default charge rate452, default charger ramp rate462, and default load shedding state475, and change the value associated with each of them similar to methods disclosed in reference to screen layout450inFIG.11.

In the present embodiment, list481also includes a new generator option483configured to allow a user to add a new generator. When a user selects the new generator option483, the user may name the generator, indicate a desired charge rate452, a desired charger ramp rate462, and a desired default load shedding flag state275. List481may also include a detection option484configured to detect nearby generators. Detection option484may use the communications unit260to communicate via BLTE, WiFi, Cellular, or other method with a nearby generator180. In another embodiment, a user may place a connected mobile device261nearby a compatible generator180so that mobile device261can read/receive the unique signature of generator180from an NFC chip. Additional details of various detection options may be found in PCT Application No. PCT/US2022/038442, filed Jul. 27, 2022, titled “VEHICLE SMART TAG”, attorney docket no. “PLR-OOTC-29872.02P-WO,” the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. Each of these methods provide a method for controller55to receive pertinent power information from generator180, including charge rate452, charger ramp rate462, and load shedding flag275. When controller55receives power information from the detected generator180, profile490for the detected generator180is automatically populated. Illustratively, screen layout450includes a confirmation input486which may be selected when the correct generator180from list481is selected. When the confirmation input486is selected, controller55sends instructions to charger75to operate using the prescribed charge rate452, charger ramp rate462and load shedding setting475for the profile490of selected generator180.

In various embodiments, controller55determines that vehicle2is at a specified location by location determiner56and adjusts a generator setting based upon the location of vehicle2. In one example, controller55uses GPS56or TCU270to determine vehicle2is at a ‘Home’ station, and is likely plugged into a constant power source, like a wall outlet, and will automatically disengage load shedding flag475because the power source is constant.

Now referring toFIG.15, controller55is configured to detect when external battery236is electrically coupled to vehicle2. In various embodiments, when external battery236is coupled to vehicle2, controller55is configured to provide instructions to automatically charge external battery236using battery51. In various embodiments, when external battery236is coupled to vehicle2, controller55is configured to provide instructions to automatically charge battery51using external battery236.

Still referring toFIG.15, display9of user interface may include a screen layout550configured to display icons of batteries51aand51band external battery236. Further, screen layout550is configured to display the charge level556of batteries51a,51band the charge level555of external battery236. Screen layout550also includes a first directional input552, a second directional input553and a neutral input551. A user may actuate or select first directional input552—illustratively, an arrow pointing from batteries51a,51bto external battery236—and controller55is configured to provide instructions for batteries51a,51bto charge external batteries236. Further, a user may actuate or select second directional input553—illustratively, an arrow pointing from external battery236to batteries51a,51b—and controller55is configured to provide instructions for external battery236to charge batteries51a,51b. A user may actuate or select neutral input551in the event that the user does not want any electrical charge to be transferred either way between batteries51and external battery236. When external battery236is coupled to vehicle2, the connection between external battery236and batteries51a,51bis bidirectional.

Referring now toFIG.16, an exemplary computing system700is provided. In the present embodiment, some or all of the functions of controller55, TCU270, communications unit260, mobile device261, vehicle264, user interface8, or other systems on vehicles2,101may be performed by one or more computing systems that has similar components as the computing system700. This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications.

The computing system700includes a bus702or other communication mechanism for communicating information between, a processor704, a display706, a cursor control component708, an input device710, a main memory712, a read only memory (ROM)714, a storage unit716, and/or a network interface718. In some examples, the bus702is coupled to the processor704, the display706, the cursor control component708, the input device710, the main memory712, the read only memory (ROM)714, the storage unit716, and/or the network interface718. And, in certain examples, the network interface718is coupled to a network720(e.g., the network112).

In some examples, the processor704includes one or more general purpose microprocessors. In some examples, the main memory712(e.g., random access memory (RAM), cache and/or other dynamic storage devices) is configured to store information and instructions to be executed by the processor704. In certain examples, the main memory712is configured to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of instructions to be executed by processor704. For example, the instructions, when stored in the storage unit716accessible to processor704, render the computing system700into a special-purpose machine that is customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions (e.g., the components112-128). In some examples, the ROM714is configured to store static information and instructions for the processor704. In certain examples, the storage unit716(e.g., a magnetic disk, optical disk, or flash drive) is configured to store information and instructions.

Thus, computing system700may include at least some form of computer readable media. The computer readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by processor704or other devices. For example, the computer readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. The computer storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. The computer storage media may not include communication media.

In some embodiments, the display706(e.g., a cathode ray tube (CRT), an LCD display, or a touch screen) is configured to display information to a user of the computing system700. In some examples, the input device710(e.g., alphanumeric and other keys) is configured to communicate information and commands to the processor704. For example, the cursor control708(e.g., a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys) is configured to communicate additional information and commands (e.g., to control cursor movements on the display706) to the processor704.