Patent Description:
In many instances, electricity may be unavailable in a building. For example, weather, environmental events, or other disasters may cause a building to lose power. Generators may be used to power individual appliances and other electrical components.

<CIT> provides system for controlling battery usage in a mobile power supply includes a controller for monitoring a state of charge of the battery and the voltage and switching off all power from the battery when the battery reaches a predetermined power off state of charge or a low voltage condition. <CIT> describes a portable charger. <CIT> describes a hybrid engine and a battery generator.

The scope of the present invention is defined by the independent claims. According to the present invention, a mobile power supply unit is provided, as defined by independent claim <NUM>. The mobile power supply unit includes a user interface; a battery configured to provide power; a generator configured to provide power and including an engine; an inverter electrically connected to the generator and the battery; and an electronics enclosure including an electrical port and a transfer switch electrically connected to the inverter. The transfer switch is adapted to provide power through the electrical port. The mobile power supply unit may further include a portable transfer switch having a first electrical cable selectively electrically connectable to the electrical port and a second electrical cable selectively electrically connectable with a power receptacle of a building. The mobile power supply unit further includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer-readable instructions stored thereon that are configured to be executed by a processor to: at a user interface, receive a request for power and a user-input period of time; and responsive to receiving the request for power, the user-input period of time and a first key receptacle at the transfer switch disposed at the mobile power supply unit being in an actuated position, transmit a signal to provide power from the inverter through the transfer switch to the portable transfer switch. The mobile power supply unit is characterized in that the computer-readable instructions are further configured to be executed by a processor to: receive a user-input start time and a user-input end time through a quiet mode prompt of the user interface, wherein the quiet mode time period is a time window having the user-input start time and the user-input end time; and check a system time of the mobile power supply unit against the time window. The mobile power unit supply unit is further characterized in that when the system time of the mobile power supply unit is not within the time window, the mobile power supply unit is adapted to provide power from at least one of the generator and the battery, and when the system time is within the time window, the mobile power supply unit is adapted to provide power from the battery and not the generator.

The mobile power supply unit may include a base and a housing including at least one housing member secured to the base and movable relative to the base. The mobile power supply unit further includes a generator and a battery disposed within the housing. An inverter is electrically connected to the generator and the battery.

The electronics enclosure may further comprise a first authorization input, and wherein the portable transfer switch further comprises a second authorization input.

According to the present invention, a method of operating a mobile power supply unit having at least one power source is provided, as defined by independent claim <NUM>. The method includes at a user interface, receiving a request for power, a user-input period of time and a quiet mode time period; and responsive to receiving the request for power, the user-input period of time and a first key receptacle at a first transfer switch disposed at the mobile power supply unit being in an actuated position, transmitting a signal to provide power from the at least one power source through the first transfer switch to a second transfer switch. The method is characterized in that the method further comprises: receiving a time window having a user-input start time and a user-input end time through a quiet mode prompt of the user interface, wherein the quiet mode time period is a time window having a the user-input start time and a the user-input end time; and checking a system time of the mobile power supply unit against the time window. The method is further characterized in that when a the system time of the mobile power supply unit is not within the time window, the mobile power supply unit is adapted to provide power from at least one of the generator and the battery, and when the system time is within the time window, the mobile power supply unit is adapted to provide power from the battery and not the generator.

The method further comprises: responsive a second key receptacle at the second transfer switch being in an actuated position, transmitting a signal to provide power from the second transfer switch to a receptacle of an electrical box that is electrically connected to an electrical network of a building.

The method may further comprise: electrically connecting the second transfer switch to the first transfer switch with a first cable; and electrically connecting the second transfer switch to a power receptacle of a building with a second cable.

The method may further comprise: responsive to receiving the request for power, providing power from the power source through the first transfer switch to the second transfer switch when the first cable is an approved cable selected from a predetermined list of approved cables.

The method may further comprise: receiving a user authentication input prior to providing power from the power source through the first transfer switch to the second transfer switch.

The mobile power supply unit may be adapted to provide power from the power source for a period of time corresponding to the user-input period of time.

According to an example, a method of operating a mobile power supply unit having at least one power source is provided. The method may comprise: at a user interface, receiving a request for power and a time window having a user-input start time and a user-input end time; and responsive to receiving the request for power and a first key receptacle at a first transfer switch disposed at the mobile power supply unit being in an actuated position, transmitting a signal to provide power from the at least one power source through the first transfer switch to a second transfer switch.

When a system time of the mobile power supply unit is not within the time window, the mobile power supply unit is adapted to provide power from at least one of a generator and a battery through the first transfer switch to the second transfer switch, and wherein when the system time is within the time window, the mobile power supply unit is adapted to provide power from the battery and not the generator.

When the system time is not within the time window, the mobile power supply unit may be adapted to provide power from the battery when an operational time of the battery is greater than the time period of the time window.

When the system time is not within the time window, the mobile power supply unit may be adapted to provide power from the generator when the operational time of the battery is less than the time period of the time window.

According to the present invention, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer-readable instructions stored thereon is provided, as defined by independent claim <NUM>. The non-transitory computer-readable medium is configured to be executed by a processor to: receive a request for power and a time window having a user-input start time and a user-input end time provided at a user interface; and responsive to receiving the request for power and a first key receptacle at a first transfer switch being in an actuated position, transmit a signal to provide power from at least one of power sources that include a battery and a generator including an engine, that are included in a mobile power supply unit. The non-transitory computer-readable medium is characterized in that the computer-readable instructions are further configured to be executed by a processor to: receive the time window through a quiet mode prompt of the user interface, wherein the time window is a quiet mode time period; and check a system time of the mobile power supply unit against the time window.

The non-transitory computer-readable medium is further characterized in that when the system time of the mobile power supply unit is not within the time window, the mobile power supply unit is adapted to provide power from at least one of a generator and a battery, and wherein when the system time is within the time window, the mobile power supply unit is adapted to provide power from the battery and not the generator.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein. It is to be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples and other embodiments may take various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features could be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. As those of ordinary skill in the art will understand, various features illustrated and described with reference to any one of the figures may be combined with features illustrated in one or more other figures to produce embodiments that are not explicitly illustrated or described. The combinations of features illustrated provide representative embodiments for typical applications. Various combinations and modifications of the features consistent with the teachings of this disclosure, however, could be desired for particular applications or implementations.

Referring now to <FIG>, a mobile power supply unit <NUM> is provided. The mobile power supply unit <NUM> is shown schematically in <FIG>. In <FIG>, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> is shown in a first configuration, which may be referred to as a closed configuration. In <FIG>, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> is shown in a second configuration, which may be referred to as a partially open configuration.

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may include a shell or housing <NUM>. The housing may include a base <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), a first side <NUM> (which may be referred to as a first side arm), a second side <NUM> (which may be referred to as a second side arm), and a top <NUM> (which may be referred to as a cover).

The first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may be movable relative to the base <NUM> and the top <NUM>. For example, the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may be rotatable. Rotational movement of the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may be in a plane parallel to an upper surface of the base <NUM>.

In at least one approach, the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may be hingedly secured to the base <NUM> (e.g., about one or more hinges) to permit rotatable movement toward and away from the base <NUM>. In at least another approach, the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may be hingedly secured to the top <NUM> (e.g., about one or more hinges) to permit rotatable movement toward and away from the top <NUM>.

The first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may define internal cavities sized to house internal components of the mobile power supply unit <NUM> such as batteries, as discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein. The first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may be rotated from a closed configuration (in which the internal components may be inaccessible) to an open or partially open configuration (in which the internal components may be accessible). In this way, a user may access one or more internal components such as batteries, for example, to perform maintenance on, or replace, the internal component.

The top <NUM> may be movable relative to the base <NUM> and the first and second sides <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, the top <NUM> may be rotatable. In at least one approach, the top <NUM> may be hingedly secured to the base <NUM> (e.g., about one or more hinges) to permit rotatable movement toward and away from the base <NUM>. The top <NUM> may define an internal cavity sized to house internal components of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>, as discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein.

Although three housing components are described as movable relative to the base, any suitable number of housing components may be provided. For example, a single housing component may be secured to the base such that the single housing component is rotatable relative to the base. In still another example, two housing components may be secured to the base such that the two housing components are rotatable relative to the base. The one or more housing components may be rotatable in a plane parallel to the base, may be rotatable in a plane perpendicular to the base, may be rotatable in a plane disposed at an oblique angle relative to the base, or any suitable combination thereof.

In still another approach, the one or more housing components may be removable housing components. In this approach, the one or more housing components may be disposed on the base <NUM> but not rotatably secured to the base <NUM>. For example, the one or more housing components may rest on the base <NUM> and may be lifted or otherwise removed from the base <NUM>. In this example, a securing arrangement such as a latch may be provided to maintain the one or more housing components in engagement with the base <NUM>.

One or more components of the housing <NUM> may be formed of polycarbonate or other engineered thermoplastics such as polyethylene, polypropylene, etc. that are crush-resistant and impact resistant. Alternatively, at least one component may be made from a thermoset, a composite material, or both. The housing <NUM> may include a watertight seal, which may be an overmolded gasket, o-ring, liner or other seal that inhibits or prevents water from entering the housing <NUM> when the housing <NUM> is in the closed configuration. The seal may be disposed, for example, on the base <NUM>, the top <NUM>, the first side <NUM>, the second side <NUM>, or any suitable combination thereof. In at least one approach, when the housing <NUM> is in the closed configuration, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may substantially protect internal components to a suitable International Protection Rating (also known as an Ingress Protection Rating) according to the International Electrotechnical Commission standard IEC <NUM> to ensure the proper protection from the ingress of external solids and liquids. For example, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may substantially protect internal components to an IP rating of <NUM> ("IP54"), <NUM> ("IP66"), or other suitable IP rating.

The base <NUM> may be, for example, a metal base such as an aluminum base. Any other suitable metal or material such as ceramic, plastic, composite, or a combination thereof may be used. The housing <NUM> may be secured to the base <NUM> in any suitable manner, such as through one or more fasteners. The base <NUM> may be adapted to support one or more internal components of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. The one or more internal components may include at least one battery <NUM>, a generator <NUM>, an inverter <NUM> (shown in broken line in <FIG>), and an electronics enclosure <NUM>. One or more of the internal components may be supported by the base <NUM>, and may be directly or indirectly disposed on the base <NUM>.

The components of the housing <NUM> may be sized to receive the various components of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. For example, the top <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may have an interior having a height suitable for enclosing the generator <NUM>, which may have a maximum height, for example, of approximately <NUM> inches. The first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may have interiors having heights suitable for enclosing batteries <NUM>. In at least one approach, the interiors of the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may be sufficient to enclose the batteries <NUM> when the batteries are disposed in various orientations. For example, the interiors of the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> may have a height sufficient to enclose the batteries <NUM> when the batteries <NUM> are disposed in a first orientation wherein the batteries <NUM> have a maximum height of approximately <NUM> inches, when the batteries <NUM> are disposed in a second orientation wherein the batteries <NUM> have a maximum height of approximately <NUM> inches, or when the batteries <NUM> are disposed in a third orientation wherein the batteries <NUM> have a maximum height of approximately <NUM> inches. All dimensions provided herein are for illustrative purposes and serve as non-limiting examples.

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be sized such that it may be transported between various locations. For example, the top <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may define a maximum height of the housing <NUM>, which may be, for example, approximately <NUM> inches. The top <NUM> may also define a maximum depth of the housing <NUM>, which may be, for example, approximately <NUM> inches. The first side <NUM>, the second side <NUM>, and the top <NUM> may define a maximum width of the housing <NUM>, which may be, for example, approximately <NUM> inches. In this way, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be portable such that it may be transported from location to location.

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may include a user interface <NUM>. The user interface <NUM> may be disposed on the housing <NUM>, for example, at the top <NUM>. The user interface <NUM> may be, for example, a screen for displaying information. The user interface <NUM> may further be a touchscreen for receiving user input. For example, a user may select between various options displayed on the screen. Furthermore, the user interface <NUM> may be adapted to display a keypad or keyboard. In this way, a user may be prompted to provide, and the user interface <NUM> may receive, information such as an authentication input. An authentication input may include one or more of passwords, passcodes, and biometric authentications such as fingerprints that may be received at a fingerprint reader.

The screen may be in the range, for example, of approximately <NUM> inches to approximately <NUM> inches (as measured by the distance between opposite corners; e.g., the length of its diagonal), and more particularly, in the range of approximately <NUM> inches to approximately <NUM> inches. The screen may be a widescreen that may present a wide field of vision in relation to its height. For example, the screen may have a <NUM>:<NUM> aspect ratio. Alternatively, the screen may have any suitable aspect ratio, such as <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, or <NUM>:<NUM>. A widescreen display may permit wide view angles as compared to other formats.

In at least one approach, the user interface <NUM> may be a flat display screen. In still another approach, the user interface <NUM> may be a curved display screen. The curved display screen may, for example, have a curvature corresponding to a curvature of the housing <NUM> at surfaces adjacent to the user interface <NUM>.

The user interface <NUM> may be a dimmable screen. In this way, energy consumption at the user interface <NUM> may be reduced. As such, the service time of the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be increased.

The user interface <NUM> may also or instead include one or more inputs such as buttons or switches for receiving user input.

In at least one approach, the user interface <NUM> may be used to operate one or more housing components, including the first side <NUM>, the second side <NUM>, and the top <NUM>. In at least one example, the user interface <NUM> may receive a request to open at least one of the housing components. In one approach, the user interface <NUM> may automatically open the requested housing component or components, or may unlock a lock to permit manual manipulation of a housing component. In another approach, the user interface <NUM> may prompt the requester for a password, passcode, and/or other authentication input. In response to receiving a suitable authentication input, the user interface <NUM> may automatically open a requested housing component, or may unlock a lock to permit manual manipulation of the housing component.

The user interface <NUM> may further include an optical interface. The optical interface may include one or more cameras. The optical interface may be used, for example, to capture visual images of the surroundings of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. The optical interface may further be adapted to receive authentication inputs, such inputs as for iris recognition techniques.

The user interface <NUM> may further include an auditory interface. The auditory interface may include one or more microphones and/or speakers. The auditory interface may be used, for example, to capture audible sounds of the surroundings of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. The auditory interface may further be adapted to receive audible commands or audible authentication inputs, such as passwords or passcodes.

In at least one approach, the user interface <NUM> is secured to mobile power supply unit <NUM> and may, for example, be hardwired to one or more components of the mobile power supply unit <NUM> such as a controller. In still another approach, the user interface <NUM> may be a portable user interface. The portable user interface may be, for example, a remote personal device (e.g., a cell phone such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, etc.). In this way, the portable user interface may wirelessly communicate with one or more components of the mobile power supply unit <NUM> such as a controller.

In at least one approach, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> includes a plurality of batteries <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may include six batteries <NUM>. Any suitable number of batteries may be provided. The batteries <NUM> may be, for example, lithium ion batteries, lithium phosphate batteries, lithium sulfur batteries, or any suitable combination thereof. Individual batteries <NUM> may have specifications, for example, including: a voltage in the range of approximately <NUM>. 0V to approximately <NUM>. 8V, a capacity of approximately 100Ahr, an operating temperature in the range of approximately -<NUM> to approximately <NUM>, a cycle life of at least <NUM>,<NUM> cycles. Individual batteries <NUM> may have indicators such as status LEDs for indicating a status of the battery <NUM>. Other suitable batteries and battery specifications are expressly contemplated herein.

A plurality of individual batteries <NUM> may be electrically coupled in series to provide increased voltages. For example, six 24V batteries <NUM> may be electrically coupled in series to produce a total voltage of 144V to be supplied to the inverter <NUM>. In at least one approach, the batteries <NUM> may be electrically coupled in both parallel and series. As used herein, the terms "electrically coupled" and "electrically connected" may be used interchangeably, and may refer to a connection that provides for the flow of electrons (electric current) between two or more electrically coupled or connected discrete points. The two or more points may be electrically coupled or connected, for example, by a conducting path or through a capacitor.

The generator <NUM> may be, for example, a <NUM>,<NUM>-Watt generator capable of providing <NUM>,<NUM>-Watt peak power. The generator <NUM> may be a gasoline powered generator. In this way, the generator <NUM> may be provided with a fuel tank of any suitable size (e.g., a <NUM>- to <NUM>-gallon fuel tank, and more particularly, a <NUM>-gallon fuel tank). Other sources of power such as diesel, propane (in liquefied or gaseous form), natural gas, or any combination thereof may be used. In still another approach, the generator <NUM> may be coupled to an engine (such as an internal combustion engine) of a vehicle to receive fuel from the vehicle. The generator <NUM> may include an engine, such as an overhead value (OHV) engine. Other suitable generators and generator specifications are expressly contemplated herein.

The batteries <NUM> may be connected (e.g., electrically coupled) to the generator <NUM>, for example, through the inverter <NUM>. In this way, the generator <NUM> may be adapted to charge the batteries <NUM>.

The inverter <NUM> may be connected (e.g., electrically coupled) to the batteries <NUM> and the generator <NUM>. The inverter <NUM> may be adapted to provide a continuous output power in the range of approximately <NUM>,<NUM> Watts to approximately <NUM>,<NUM> Watts or more. The inverter <NUM> may be adapted to, for example, convert DC power from the batteries <NUM> into AC power (e.g., <NUM>-volt, <NUM>-Hz AC power). In still another approach, the inverter <NUM> may be connected (e.g., electrically coupled) to a battery or electrical system of a vehicle to receive electricity from the vehicle.

In addition to batteries <NUM> and a generator <NUM>, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may include, or may be electrically coupled to, one or more additional sources of power. The additional sources of power may be disposed within the housing <NUM> or outside of the housing <NUM>. The additional sources of power may include alternative energies, such as solar thermal systems or solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for extracting solar energy, geothermal energy systems, hydroelectric energy systems, biomass energy systems, one or more wind turbines, etc. Power received from the one or more additional sources of power may be used to charge the batteries <NUM>, and may be transferred to the inverter <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the inverter <NUM> may include one or more (e.g., four) 5vDC outputs, one or more (e.g., two) 12vDC outputs, one or more (e.g., one) 24vDC outputs, one or more (e.g., six) 110vAC outputs, and one or more (e.g., one) 220vAC output.

The inverter <NUM> may also function as a charger and thus may be referred to as an inverter-charger. The inverter-charger may, for example, be adapted to charge the batteries <NUM>. In this way, the inverter <NUM> may include one or more 12vDC, 110vAC, and 220vAC inputs. The inputs may receive power from another source, such as the generator <NUM> or an electrical grid of a structure.

An electronics enclosure <NUM> is shown in <FIG>. The electronics enclosure <NUM> may house various components. For example, the electronics enclosure <NUM> may house one or more communication components <NUM>. The communication components <NUM> may be wireless communication components such as one or more antennas, receivers, transmitters, transceivers, or any suitable combination thereof. Wireless transmissions may be in the form of any wireless communication technology, including satellite communications, cellular communications (such as cellular data networks, text, and short message services that may be sent over various telecommunication standards including <NUM> LT), radio waves and other radio communications, wireless local area networks (such as Wi-Fi or WiMax networks), personal area networks (such as a Bluetooth, IrDA, Z-Wave or ZigBee), and other internet communications. The communication components may also be wired communication components. The wired communication components may include receivers or ports adapted to interface and communicate via a wired connection such as through electrical transmission cables, coaxial cables, Ethernet cables, fiber optic communication cables, or other communication cables. In this way, the electronics enclosure <NUM> may include one or more interfaces or ports (e.g., USB and ethernet ports) for coupling with a wired communication component. Additional forms of known wired and wireless communication may also be utilized.

In this way, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be adapted to communicate with external sources. For example, the communication components <NUM> may receive communications such as remote diagnostic communications or troubleshooting communications. The communication components <NUM> may also provide a communications network that may be utilized by other devices. For example, the communication components <NUM> may provide a satellite network or mobile hotspot (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular). In this way, computing devices such as mobile phones may be provided with a communications network.

The electronics enclosure <NUM> may also include one or more controllers <NUM>. The controllers <NUM> may be or may include processor that may be any suitable processing device or set of processing devices such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, an integrated circuit, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and/or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The controllers <NUM> may be adapted to control one or more functions of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. For example, a system controller may be adapted to control operating modes and/or power distribution at the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. The system controller may be in communication with one or more controllers, such as a communications controller.

The electronics enclosure <NUM> may include a fan assembly <NUM> that may have a fan and a motor for operating the fan. Operation of the fan may cool one or more components within the electronics enclosure <NUM>. In this way, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be adapted to operate at elevated temperatures (e.g., in environments having temperatures of over <NUM> degrees Celsius).

As shown in <FIG>, the electronics enclosure <NUM> may include one or more key receptacles <NUM>. The key receptacles <NUM> may receive and may be actuated by corresponding keys. The keys may actuate the key receptacle by rotating a lock cylinder of the key receptacle from a first position to a second position. Actuation of the key receptacles <NUM> may indicate an authorized request for power, and deactuation of the key receptacles <NUM> may terminate the request for power. In this way, the electronics enclosure <NUM> may be, or may include, a control box for controlling distribution of power.

The electronics enclosure <NUM> may also include one or more electrical ports <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the electronics enclosure <NUM> may include four electrical ports <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the electronics enclosure <NUM> may include <NUM> electrical ports (e.g., corresponding to the six <NUM> VAC outputs). In still other approaches, the electronics enclosure <NUM> may include one, two, six, twelve, twenty-four, or more electrical ports <NUM>. The electrical ports <NUM> may be adapted to provide power, receive power, provide communications, receive communications, or any combination thereof. The electrical ports <NUM> may be, for example, <NUM>-pin ports, and may have male or female configurations. The electrical ports <NUM> may be adapted to receive a transfer cable, as described elsewhere herein.

In at least one approach, the electrical ports <NUM> may be accessible through one or more of the movable housing components such as the top <NUM>, the first side <NUM>, and/or the second side. In still another approach, the electrical ports <NUM> may be accessible through the base <NUM>. In this way, and referring momentarily to <FIG>, the electrical ports <NUM> may be accessible through an underside of a vehicle <NUM>.

An individual key receptacle <NUM> the electronics enclosure <NUM> may correspond to an individual electrical port <NUM>. In one example, an electronics enclosure <NUM> having four electrical ports <NUM> may have four key receptacles <NUM>. Each of the four individual key receptacles <NUM> may correspond to one of the six electrical ports <NUM>. In another example, an electronics enclosure <NUM> having six electrical ports <NUM> may have six key receptacles <NUM>. Each of the six individual key receptacles <NUM> may correspond to one of the six electrical ports <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, electronics enclosure <NUM> may also include one or more transfer switches <NUM>. A transfer switch <NUM> may be electrically coupled to the inverter <NUM>. In this way, the transfer switch <NUM> may be adapted to transfer power from the inverter <NUM> to one or more electrical ports <NUM>. The transfer switch <NUM> may also be adapted to transfer power to the inverter <NUM> from one or more electrical ports <NUM>. As transfer switch <NUM> may be disposed within the mobile power supply unit <NUM>, the transfer switch <NUM> may be referred to as a central transfer switch.

The electronics enclosure <NUM> may also include one or more memory devices <NUM>. The memory devices <NUM> may be in communication with one or more other components such as a controller <NUM>. The memory <NUM> may be volatile memory (e.g., RAM including non-volatile RAM, magnetic RAM, ferroelectric RAM, etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., disk memory, FLASH memory, EPROMs, EEPROMs, memristor-based non-volatile solid-state memory, etc.), unalterable memory (e.g., EPROMs), read-only memory, and/or high-capacity storage devices (e.g., hard drives, solid state drives, etc.). In some examples, the memory <NUM> may include multiple kinds of memory, particularly volatile memory and non-volatile memory.

The memory <NUM> may be a computer readable media on which one or more sets of instructions such as the software for operating the methods of the present disclosure, can be embedded. The instructions may embody one or more of the methods or logic as described herein. For example, the instructions may reside completely, or at least partially, within any one or more of the memory <NUM>, the computer readable medium, and/or within the controller <NUM> during execution of the instructions.

The terms "non-transitory computer-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" include a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. Further, the terms "non-transitory computer-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" include any tangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by a processor or that cause a system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein. As used herein, the term "computer readable medium" is expressly defined to include any type of computer readable storage device and/or storage disk and to exclude propagating signals.

The electronics enclosure <NUM> may also include one or more metering devices <NUM>. The metering devices <NUM> may monitor and track electricity distribution to one or more portable transfer switches, as discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein. The metering devices <NUM> may further monitor and track electricity distribution from one or more portable transfer switches. The electricity distribution may be displayed, for example, at the user interface <NUM>.

The electronics enclosure <NUM> may also include one or more system time devices <NUM>. A system time device <NUM> may be represent the mobile power supply unit's <NUM> notion of the passing of time. In this way, the system time device <NUM> may track a date, time, and/or a time interval (for example, a time interval measuring the duration of operation).

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may further include a first aid kit <NUM> disposed within the housing <NUM>. The first aid kit <NUM> may contain one or more of: plasters, sterile gauze dressings, sterile eye dressings, triangular bandages, crêpe rolled bandages, safety pins, sterile gloves, tweezers, scissors, alcohol-free cleansing wipes, sticky tape, thermometer, skin rash cream (such as hydrocortisone or calendula), cream or spray to relieve insect bites and stings, antiseptic cream, painkillers such as paracetamol, aspirin, or ibuprofen, cough medicine, antihistamine tablets, distilled water, eye wash, an eye bath, or any combination thereof.

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may further include a water filtration system <NUM> disposed within the housing <NUM>. At the water filtration system <NUM>, water may be introduced at an inlet and may be passed through one or more filters, which may be microfiltration filters. The filters may be, for example, hollow fibers that may trap pathogens as the water passes through or over the fibers. The filters may also, or instead, be ion-exchange filters that may contain zeolites that may contain sodium. The filters may also provide activated carbon filtration.

Referring now to <FIG>, one or more portable transfer switches <NUM> may be provided. As used herein, the term "portable" refers to a transfer switch that may be a handheld transfer switch. The portable transfer switches <NUM> may be carried by a user from location to location. The portable transfer switches <NUM> may be disposed outside of the housing <NUM> of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>.

The portable transfer switches <NUM> may include an electrical port <NUM>. The electrical port <NUM> may be similar to the electrical port <NUM> of the electronics enclosure <NUM>. The electrical port <NUM> may be adapted to receive a transfer cable <NUM>. In this way, a transfer cable <NUM> may be connected at a first end to an electrical port <NUM> of the electronics enclosure <NUM>, and at a second end to the electrical port <NUM> of the portable transfer switch <NUM>. As such, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be electrically coupled to a quantity of portable transfer switches <NUM> that corresponds to the quantity of electrical ports <NUM> at the electronics enclosure <NUM>. For example, a mobile power supply unit <NUM> that includes six electrical ports <NUM> may be connected to six portable transfer switches <NUM>.

In at least one approach, one or more transfer cables <NUM> may be disposed in a retractable configuration at the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. In at least one approach, a transfer cable <NUM> may be connected to an electrical port <NUM> of the electronics enclosure <NUM>, and may be selectively retracted, and drawn, from a spool. The spool may be disposed within or adjacent to the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. For example, a spool may be disposed below the mobile power supply unit <NUM>; for example, below the base <NUM>, or within or below an undercarriage of a vehicle supporting the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. In at least one approach, multiple spools may be provided. For example, a spool may be provided for each transfer cable <NUM>. In this way, a user may selectively draw a transfer cable <NUM> electrically connected to the mobile power supply unit <NUM> (e.g., when power from the transfer cable <NUM> is desired), and may retract the transfer cable <NUM>, or cause the transfer cable <NUM> to be retracted (e.g., when the transfer cable <NUM> is not needed).

A portable transfer switch <NUM> may further include one or more power cables. For example, as shown in <FIG>, a portable transfer switch may be provided with a first power cable <NUM> and a second power cable <NUM>. The first power cable <NUM> and the second power cable <NUM> may be adapted to connect to 120V AC wall sockets.

The portable transfer switch <NUM> may be provided with one or more key receptacles <NUM>. A key receptacle <NUM> may receive and may be actuated by a corresponding key. Actuation of the key receptacle <NUM> may indicate an authorized request for power, and deactuation of the key receptacle <NUM> may terminate the request for power.

The portable transfer switch <NUM> may include one or more annunciation interfaces. In at least one approach, the annunciation interface may be, or may include, a visual indicator for providing a visual annunciation. In still another approach, the annunciation interface may be, or may include, a speaker for providing an audible annunciation.

In one example approach, the portable transfer switch <NUM> may include a first LED indicator <NUM>, a second LED indicator <NUM>, and a third LED indicator <NUM>. The first LED indicator <NUM> may be a green LED indicator, and may indicate, when illuminated, that power is being received at the portable transfer switch <NUM> from the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. The second LED indicator <NUM> may be a yellow LED indicator, and may indicate, when illuminated, that no power is being transferred from either a mobile power supply unit <NUM> or the electrical box (e.g., as monitored through the second power cable <NUM>). The third LED indicator <NUM> may be a green LED indicator, and may indicate, when illuminated, that power is being supplied from the electrical box to the portable transfer switch <NUM> (e.g., through the second power cable <NUM>). The individual colors of the indicators may differ.

A controller <NUM> of the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be adapted to monitor and control the distribution of power from the transfer switch <NUM> to one or more portable transfer switches <NUM>, as well as from one or more portable transfer switch <NUM> to the transfer switch <NUM>, as discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein. The controller may monitor and control the distribution of power to and/or from the one or more portable transfer switches individually or collectively.

Referring now to <FIG>, the portable transfer switch <NUM> may be electrically connected to an electrical box <NUM>. The electrical box <NUM> may be associated with a building <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). For example, the electrical box <NUM> may be a wall socket, such as a 120V AC wall socket, of a residential or commercial building.

In one example approach, the first power cable <NUM> may be connected to a first receptacle <NUM> at an electrical box <NUM>, and the second power cable <NUM> may be connected to a second receptacle <NUM> at the electrical box <NUM>. The portable transfer switch <NUM> may be adapted to transmit electricity through the first power cable <NUM> to the first receptacle <NUM>, and may thereby provide power to a power distribution system of a building <NUM> associated with the electrical box <NUM>. The portable transfer switch <NUM> may be adapted to monitor power at the electrical box <NUM> through the second power cable <NUM>. For example, the portable transfer switch <NUM> may be adapted to monitor, through the second power cable <NUM>, for mains power at the electrical box <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, in at least one approach, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be disposed on a vehicle <NUM>. The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be disposed, for example, in a bed or other platform of the vehicle <NUM>. The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be rigidly secured to the vehicle <NUM>; for example, through one or more fasteners, welds, or other suitable approaches for fixing the mobile power supply unit <NUM> to the vehicle <NUM>. In still another approach, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be disposed on or in the vehicle <NUM> such that the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be removed (or may be removable) from the vehicle <NUM>.

The vehicle <NUM> may be an off-road vehicle (ORV) such as an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or utility vehicle (UTV). In this way, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be able to be delivered to a location that may otherwise be difficult to reach using vehicles that typically travel public streets or highways. In still another approach, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be disposed in a truck, such as a pickup truck or in a semi-trailer truck. In still another approach, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be disposed in or on a trailer to be pulled by a vehicle.

In still other approaches, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be provided with wheels. The wheels may be connected to the housing <NUM>, the base <NUM>, or at any other suitable location. In this way, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be transported to locations not accessible with a vehicle. The wheels may be removable wheels.

Referring to <FIG>, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be associated with one or more buildings <NUM> at a given location <NUM>. The buildings <NUM> may be separate buildings <NUM> that, while possibly electrically connected to a central power source, may have independent electrical wiring. The buildings <NUM> may be geographically spaced from one another such that they are physically detached (e.g., having spaced apart exterior walls). In one example, the buildings <NUM> may be disposed on opposite sides of a street. Individual power cables <NUM>, <NUM> of the portable transfer switches <NUM> may be plugged into electrical boxes <NUM> at the buildings <NUM>.

In one example approach, one or more of the buildings <NUM> may not have power. For example, power as otherwise supplied by a utility provider may not be available for distribution through the power distribution system of a building <NUM>. In this example, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be adapted to be electrically coupled to the building <NUM> to supply power (e.g., as supplied from the batteries <NUM> or generator <NUM>) to the building <NUM>. More particularly, mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be electrically coupled to an electrical box <NUM> of the building <NUM> through the portable transfer switch <NUM> to provide power to the power distribution system of the building <NUM>.

In another example approach, one or more of the buildings 102a may not have power, and one or more of the buildings 102b may have power distributed through the power distribution system of the building 102b. In this example, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be adapted to be electrically coupled to the powered building 102b to receive power from the building 102b at the mobile power supply unit <NUM> (e.g., through a transfer cable <NUM> associated with a portable transfer switch <NUM> electrically connected to the building 102b). The power received at the mobile power supply unit <NUM> from the building 102b may be supplied to the building 102a without power (e.g., through a transfer cable 74a associated with a portable transfer switch <NUM> electrically connected to the building 102a). In this way, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be adapted to draw electricity from a first building 102b, and may direct the electricity to a second building 102a.

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may also be adapted to draw electricity from a powered building 102b to charge the batteries <NUM> of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>.

In at least one approach, the metering device <NUM> may be adapted to monitor power received from a powered building 102b. Mobile power supply unit <NUM> may further be adapted to display an indication of power received from the powered building 102b, for example, at the user interface <NUM>. In this way, an owner of the powered building 102b may be informed of power drawn from the building 102b, and may use this information for purposes of reimbursement (e.g., financial reimbursement).

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may operate in one or more operating modes when providing power to a portable transfer switch <NUM>. For example, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may operate in a manual operation mode. In the manual operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is exhausted. For example, when a battery <NUM> is the power source, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may provide power from the battery <NUM> until the charge of the battery <NUM> is exhausted. In still another example, when a generator <NUM> is the power source, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may provide power from the generator <NUM> until the generator <NUM> exhausts the fuel supply (e.g., gasoline). In still another approach, when operating in the manual operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is reduced to a predetermined power level (e.g., <NUM> gallon or <NUM>% state-of-charge) before user-selected period of time elapses. When the power source is reduced to the predetermined power level, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may terminate the provision of power.

In one exemplary approach, when operating in the manual mode and when not in quiet mode, one or more batteries <NUM> may serve as the default power source. When the charge of the batteries is reduced to approximately <NUM>% capacity, a secondary source of power may be utilized (e.g., generator <NUM>).

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may also be adapted to operate in a time-based operation mode. In the time-based operation mode, a user may instruct, for example, at the user interface <NUM>, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> to provide power to a portable transfer switch <NUM> for a user-selected period of time (e.g., <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> hour, <NUM> hours, <NUM> hours, <NUM> day, <NUM> days, <NUM> week, etc.). In the time-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until the user-selected period of time elapses. In at least one approach, in the time-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is exhausted before the user-selected period of time elapses, similar to the operation in the manual mode, as previously discussed. In still another approach, when operating in the time-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is reduced to a predetermined power level (e.g., <NUM> gallon or <NUM>% state-of-charge) before the user-selected period of time elapses. When the power source is reduced to the predetermined power level, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may terminate the provision of power, even if the user-selected period of time has not elapsed.

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may also be adapted to operate in a standard operation mode or a quiet operation mode. The quiet operation mode may further be a manual quiet operation mode or a time-based quiet operation mode. In the manual quiet operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be adapted to inhibit operation of a relatively loud component such as the generator <NUM>. Also in the manual quiet mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may draw power from another source such as the batteries <NUM>, that does not emit audible noise when providing power.

In the time-based quiet mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be adapted to inhibit operation of the generator <NUM> during a user-input quiet mode duration. For example, prior to (or after) a user initiates a quiet mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may receive (e.g., at the user interface <NUM>) a user input corresponding to the quiet mode duration. The quiet mode duration may be in the form of a time-keeping convention (e.g., a <NUM>-hour clock or a <NUM>-hour clock). The quiet mode duration may also or instead be in the form of an elapsed time duration (e.g., <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> hour, <NUM> hours, <NUM> hours, etc.), or other suitable quiet mode duration. In the time-based quiet mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may be adapted to inhibit operation of a relatively loud component such as the generator <NUM> during the user-input quiet mode duration. Also in the time-base quiet mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may draw power from another source such as the batteries <NUM>, that does not emit audible noise when providing power during the user-input quiet mode duration.

When the mobile power supply unit <NUM> is operating in the time-based quiet mode when not during the user-input quiet mode duration, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may select any suitable power source, including the generator <NUM>. The power source may be selected, for example, based on a state-of-charge of one or more of the batteries <NUM>, the fuel supply of the generator <NUM>, or a power demand from the mobile power supply unit <NUM> (which may correspond to a power demand over a previous time period, such as the previous <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> hours).

The mobile power supply unit <NUM> may also be adapted to operate in an energy-based operation mode. In the energy-based operation mode, a user may instruct, for example, at the user interface <NUM>, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> to operate until a user-selected energy threshold has been transferred from the mobile power supply unit <NUM> to one or more portable transfer switches <NUM>. The user-selected energy threshold may be, for example, <NUM> kilowatt hour (kWh), <NUM> kWh, <NUM> kWh, <NUM> kWhs, or any suitable energy consumption threshold. The power transferred to a portable transfer switch <NUM> may be monitored, for example, by a metering device <NUM> of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. In at least one approach, in the energy-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is exhausted before the user-selected energy threshold is achieved, similar to the operation in the manual mode, as previously discussed. In still another approach, when operating in the energy-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is reduced to a predetermined power level (e.g., <NUM> gallon or <NUM>% state-of-charge) before the user-selected energy threshold is achieved. When the power source is reduced to the predetermined power level, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may terminate the provision of power, even if the user-selected energy threshold has not been achieved.

In at least one approach, a selected mode of operation may be applied to the provision of power through all connected tentacle cables. In still another approach, individual modes of operation may be designated for individual tentacle cables. In this way, a first mode of operation (e.g., a manual operation mode) may be selected for a first tentacle cable, and a second mode of operation different than the first mode (e.g., a time-based operation mode) may be selected for a second tentacle cable.

Referring to <FIG>, in at least one approach, a method <NUM> for providing power is provided. The method may include receiving <NUM> a request for power. The request for power may be received at the user interface of a mobile power supply unit (MPSU); for example at user interface <NUM> of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. As discussed, the user interface may be a touchscreen. As such, the request for power may be a user input at the touchscreen. In still another approach, the power request may be a remotely transmitted power request. For example, a power request may be a wired or wireless transmission received at the mobile power supply unit. The wired or wireless transmission may be transmitted, for example, from a remote location (e.g., a location geographically distant from the mobile power supply unit by at least <NUM>/<NUM> kilometer).

In an optional approach, the power request may include additional information. For example, the power request may further specify a desired electrical port through which power is requested. In this way, the power request can be directed to desired portable transfer switch.

The method <NUM> may further include, by a controller (e.g., controller <NUM> of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>), determining <NUM> if a portable transfer switch (e.g., portable transfer switch <NUM>) is electrically connected to the mobile power supply unit. The electric coupling may be, for example, through a transfer cable (e.g., transfer cable <NUM>) that is plugged in at one end to the mobile power supply unit and at the opposite end to a portable transfer switch. In this way, the method may further include electrically connecting a portable transfer switch to the mobile power supply unit.

If the mobile power supply unit is not electrically connected to a portable transfer switch, the controller may not provide, or may inhibit the provision of, electricity from the mobile power supply unit; for example, through the requested electrical port. In an optional approach, the controller may further effect a fault message (for example, at the user interface) in response to the received request for power. The fault message may indicate that the mobile power supply unit is not electrically coupled to a portable transfer switch.

In an optional approach, if the mobile power supply unit is electrically connected to a portable transfer switch, the method may proceed to step <NUM> where the controller may determine whether an approved transfer cable electrically couples the mobile power supply unit to a portable transfer switch. The approved transfer cable may be one of a group of predetermined approved transfer cable. The approved transfer cable may also include an authentication protocol. For example, the approved transfer cable may include a wired and/or wireless transmitter or transceiver adapted to communicate an authentication indicator. In at least one approach, the approved transfer cable includes a radio-frequency identification (RFID) transmitter adapted to send an authentication indicator, for example to a controller (e.g., controller <NUM> of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>). The controller may then determine whether the transfer cable is an approved transfer cable.

If an approved transfer cable does not electrically couple the mobile power supply unit to the portable transfer switch, the controller may not provide, or may inhibit the provision of, electricity from the mobile power supply unit; for example, through the requested electrical port. In an optional approach, the controller may further effect a fault message (for example, at the user interface) in response to the received request for power. The fault message may indicate that an approved transfer cable does not electrically couple the mobile power supply unit to the portable transfer switch.

At step <NUM>, the method may include performing one or more authorization checks. A first authorization check may include determining <NUM> (e.g., by the controller) whether a key receptacle (e.g., key receptacle <NUM>) at the mobile power supply unit has been actuated. As used herein, a key receptacle may be actuated as a function of a lock cylinder of the key receptacle. For example, a key receptacle may be deactuated when the lock cylinder is in a first position or orientation, and may be actuated when the lock cylinder is in a second position different (e.g., offset from) the first position. That is, the key receptacle may be actuated when the lock cylinder is rotated to a predetermined position, or rotated a predetermined angle of rotation. Rotation of the lock cylinder may be indicative of a user possessing a key corresponding to the key receptacle. In this way, actuation of the key receptacle may indicate that a user is authorized to submit the power request.

A second authorization check may include determining <NUM> (e.g., by the controller) whether a key receptacle at the portable transfer switch has been actuated. As discussed elsewhere herein, an electrical port at the mobile power supply unit may correspond to a key receptacle at the mobile power supply unit. In this way, the second authorization check may further determine whether the portable transfer switch at which the key receptacle was actuated is electrically coupled to an electrical port corresponding to the key receptacle actuation at the mobile power supply unit.

A third authorization check may include determining <NUM> (e.g., by the controller) whether a user input corresponds to an authorized input. An authorized input may include one or more of passwords, passcodes, and biometric authentications such as fingerprints that correspond to an authorization input stored in a memory.

In at least one approach, the authorization check <NUM> includes determinations <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. In at least another approach, the authorization check <NUM> includes at least one, but not all, of determinations <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. In still another approach, the authorization check <NUM> may be an optional step, and may be omitted entirely such that determinations <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are not made.

After the authorization check <NUM>, at step <NUM>, the controller may determine whether the request for power is an authorized request for power. The determination <NUM> may be in response to determinations <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>.

If the controller determines that the request for power is not an authorized request for power, the controller may not provide, or may inhibit the provision of, electricity from the mobile power supply unit to the portable transfer switch. In an optional approach, the controller may further effect a fault message (for example, at the user interface). The fault message may indicate that the request for power is not an authorized request for power.

If the controller determines that the request for power is an authorized request for power, the method may proceed to optional step <NUM>. At step <NUM>, the controller may receive an operation mode selection, as discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein.

The method may further include the optional step <NUM> of receiving a request for a quiet mode operation, as discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein.

The method may proceed to step <NUM> where the controller initiates the provision of power from the mobile power supply unit to the portable transfer switch.

Referring now to <FIG>, an operation mode selection routine <NUM> may include initiating <NUM> an operation mode prompt. The operation mode selection routine may be performed, for example, at step <NUM> of <FIG>. In at least one approach, the operation mode prompt may be displayed at a user interface (which may correspond to user interface <NUM> discussed herein). In still another approach, the operation mode selection routine may not include an operation mode prompt. Instead, the operation mode selection routine may begin at step <NUM>.

At step <NUM>, the method may include receiving a user input, for example, at a user interface. The user input may be a selection at a touch screen. In still another approach, the user input may be a position of a toggle switch. Other user input selection approaches are expressly contemplated.

The user input may be a selection of one of several operation modes. For example, the user input may be a selection of a manual mode, a time-based mode, or an energy-based mode.

In response to receiving a selection of a manual operation mode, the method may proceed to step <NUM> wherein the controller may be adapted to control the provision of power from a power source until the power source is reduced to a predetermined power level (e.g., <NUM> gallon or <NUM>% state-of-charge). When the power source is reduced to the predetermined power level, the controller may terminate (and may inhibit) the provision of power from the mobile power supply unit. In still another approach, when operating in the manual operation mode, the controller may be adapted to control the provision of power from the mobile power supply unit until a power source is exhausted. For example, when a battery <NUM> is the power source, the controller may control the provision of power from the battery <NUM> until the charge of the battery <NUM> is exhausted. In still another example, when a generator <NUM> is the power source, the controller may control the provision of power from the generator <NUM> until the generator <NUM> exhausts the fuel supply (e.g., gasoline).

In response to receiving a selection of a time-based operation mode, the method may proceed to step <NUM> wherein the mobile power supply unit may receive a time threshold input (for example, at the user interface). The time threshold input may be a user-selected period of time (e.g., <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> hour, <NUM> hours, <NUM> hours, <NUM> day, <NUM> days, <NUM> week, etc.). The method may proceed to step <NUM> wherein the controller may be adapted to operate the mobile power supply unit in the time-based operation mode. In the time-based operation mode, the controller may be adapted to control the provision of power from a power source for a period of time corresponding to a user-input period of time received at the user interface. In the time-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until the user-selected period of time elapses. In at least one approach, in the time-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is exhausted before the user-selected period of time elapses, similar to the operation in the manual mode, as previously discussed. In still another approach, when operating in the time-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is reduced to a predetermined power level (e.g., <NUM> gallon or <NUM>% state-of-charge) before the user-selected period of time elapses. When the power source is reduced to the predetermined power level, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may terminate the provision of power, even if the user-selected period of time has not elapsed.

In response to receiving a selection of an energy-based operation mode, the method may proceed to step <NUM> wherein the mobile power supply unit may receive an energy threshold input (for example, at the user interface). The energy threshold may be a user-selected energy threshold and may be, for example, <NUM> kilowatt hour (kWh), <NUM> kWh, <NUM> kWh, <NUM> kWhs, or any suitable energy consumption threshold. The method may proceed to step <NUM> wherein the controller may be adapted to operate the mobile power supply unit in the energy-based operation mode. In the energy-based operation mode, the controller may be adapted to control the provision of power from a power source until the user-selected energy threshold has been provided, for example, to a specific portable transfer switch. The power transferred to a portable transfer switch <NUM> may be monitored, for example, by a metering device <NUM> of the mobile power supply unit <NUM>. In at least one approach, in the energy-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is exhausted before the user-selected energy threshold is achieved, similar to the operation in the manual mode, as previously discussed. In still another approach, when operating in the energy-based operation mode, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may supply power until a power source is reduced to a predetermined power level (e.g., <NUM> gallon or <NUM>% state-of-charge) before the user-selected energy threshold is achieved. When the power source is reduced to the predetermined power level, the mobile power supply unit <NUM> may terminate the provision of power, even if the user-selected energy threshold has not been achieved.

Referring now to <FIG>, a quiet mode selection routine <NUM> may include initiating <NUM> a quiet mode prompt. The quiet mode selection routine may be performed, for example, at step <NUM> of <FIG>. In at least one approach, the quiet mode prompt may be displayed at a user interface (which may correspond to user interface <NUM> discussed herein). In still another approach, the quiet mode selection routine may not include a quiet mode prompt. Instead, the quiet mode selection routine may begin at step <NUM>.

At step <NUM>, the method may include receiving a quiet mode input, for example, at a user interface. The quiet mode input may be a user input at a touchscreen display. In still another approach, the quiet mode input may be a position of a toggle switch. Other quiet mode input selection approaches are expressly contemplated.

In at least one approach, the quiet mode may be a programmable quiet mode. In this way, the method may include receiving <NUM> a quiet mode time period. The quiet mode time period may be a time window having a user-input start time and a user-input end time.

At step <NUM>, the method may include checking a system time of the mobile power supply unit against the time window. When a system time of the mobile power supply unit is not within the time window, the method may proceed to step <NUM>, where the controller may be adapted to provide power from at least one of a generator and a battery of the mobile power supply unit to the portable transfer switch.

In at least one approach, the determination of whether to provide power from the generator or the battery when a system time of the mobile power supply unit is not within the time window may be a function of a state-of-charge (SOC) of the battery. The SOC of the battery may be indicative of operational time of the battery (e.g., in seconds, minutes, hours, etc.). In this way, the controller may be adapted to provide power from the battery, and not the generator, when an operational time of the battery is greater than the quiet mode time period. Conversely, when the system time is not within the time window, the controller may be adapted to provide power from the generator, and not the battery, when the operational time of the battery is less than the quiet mode time period.

For example, where a quiet mode time period has a duration of eight hours, and the battery SOC indicates the battery has an operational time of nine hours, the controller may be adapted to provide power from the battery and not the generator. Where a quiet mode time period has a duration of eight hours, and the battery SOC indicates the battery has an operational time of eight hours, the controller may be adapted to provide power from the generator and not the battery. In at least one approach, the controller may provide power from the generator until the system time of the mobile power supply unit is within the time window. In still another approach, the controller may provide power from the generator until the battery SOC achieves a level sufficient to provide battery power for the duration of the quiet mode time period.

When a system time of the mobile power supply unit is within the time window, the method may proceed to step <NUM>, where the controller may be adapted to provide power from the battery and not the generator.

The control strategy disclosed herein may represent control logic that is implemented by a controller <NUM> using hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. For example, the various functions may be performed using a programmed microprocessor. The control logic may be implemented using any of a number of known programming or processing techniques or strategies and is not limited to the order or sequence illustrated. As such, the steps recited herein may be executed in any suitable order and are not limited to the specific order presented herein.

Claim 1:
A mobile power supply unit (<NUM>) comprising:
a user interface (<NUM>);
a battery (<NUM>) configured to provide power;
a generator (<NUM>) configured to provide power, the generator (<NUM>) including an engine;
an inverter (<NUM>) electrically connected to the generator (<NUM>) and the battery (<NUM>); and
an electronics enclosure (<NUM>) including
an electrical port (<NUM>); and
a transfer switch (<NUM>) electrically connected to the inverter (<NUM>) and adapted to provide power through the electrical port (<NUM>),
the electronics enclosure (<NUM>) further comprising a first key receptacle (<NUM>), and
the electronics enclosure (<NUM>) further comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer-readable instructions stored thereon that are configured to be executed by a processor to:
at the user interface (<NUM>), receive a request for power, a user-input period of time and a quiet mode input including a quiet mode time period; and
responsive to receiving the request for power, the user-input period of time and the first key receptacle (<NUM>) at the transfer switch (<NUM>) disposed at the mobile power supply unit (<NUM>) being in an actuated position, transmit a signal to provide power from the inverter (<NUM>) through the transfer switch (<NUM>),
the mobile power supply unit (<NUM>) characterized in that:
the computer-readable instructions are further configured to be executed by a processor to:
receive a user-input start time and a user-input end time through a quiet mode prompt of the user interface (<NUM>), wherein the quiet mode time period is a time window having the user-input start time and the user-input end time; and
check a system time of the mobile power supply unit (<NUM>) against the time window, and
when the system time of the mobile power supply unit (<NUM>) is not within the time window, the mobile power supply unit (<NUM>) is adapted to provide power from at least one of the generator (<NUM>) and the battery (<NUM>), and when the system time is within the time window, the mobile power supply unit (<NUM>) is adapted to provide power from the battery (<NUM>) and not the generator (<NUM>).