Patent ID: 12187154

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit embodiments and/or application or uses of embodiments. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed and/or implied information presented in any of the preceding Background section, Summary section, and/or in the Detailed Description section.

One or more embodiments are now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like referenced numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the one or more embodiments. It is evident, however, in various cases, that the one or more embodiments can be practiced without these specific details.

It is to be understood that when an element is referred to as being “coupled” to another element, it can describe one or more different types of coupling including, but not limited to, chemical coupling, communicative coupling, electrical coupling, electromagnetic coupling, operative coupling, optical coupling, physical coupling, thermal coupling, and/or another type of coupling. Likewise, it is to be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected” to another element, it can describe one or more different types of connecting including, but not limited to, electrical connecting, electromagnetic connecting, operative connecting, optical connecting, physical connecting, thermal connecting, and/or another type of connecting. As used herein, “data” can comprise metadata. Further, ranges A-n are utilized herein to indicate a respective plurality of devices, components, signals etc., where n is any positive integer. Furthermore, x herein indicates any value greater than zero.

While one or more devices and/or systems are described below with reference to an electric vehicle, such as an automobile, the one or more embodiments described herein are not limited to this use. For example, one or more embodiments presented herein can be utilized to control charging of any battery, wherein the battery may be located on a military vehicle, a marine vehicle such as a boat, ship, or marine drone, a winged vehicle such as a plane or drone, and/or a rotor-ed vehicle such as a helicopter or drone. Likewise, one or more embodiments presented herein can be extended to controlling charging of a battery located on a robot and/or any suitable moving or stationary device. Further, one or more embodiments presented herein can be utilized to control charging of a battery, wherein the battery is a standalone device, e.g., the battery is not located on a vehicle, device, etc.

It is to be appreciated that while the various embodiments presented herein are directed to an electric vehicle, the embodiments can be applied to any vehicle utilizing a battery charging system, e.g., a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) where the powerplant is only an electric motor powered by a battery, a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) having both a gasoline/petrol engine & fuel tank and an electric motor powered by a battery, and the like.

In an embodiment, the disclosed subject matter can be directed to controlling charging of an electric vehicle based upon detecting proximity of a portable device to the electric vehicle while, for example, the battery charging operation is underway. In another embodiment, an operator of the vehicle (e.g., owner, driver) can be carrying/conveying a portable device which includes a radio signal transmitter, wherein the portable device can be any of a keyfob (also known as a smartkey), a smartphone, a smartwatch, a laptop, etc. The transmitter can be utilizing any radio signaling technology suitable to enable accurate determination of position and/or motion of the portable device. In an embodiment, the radio signaling technology can be ultra-wideband (UWB) frequency/technology. In an example of use, if the operator wants to terminate charging of the battery, they can approach and stand by the vehicle's charging port, and while doing so, the portable device, is transmitting the radio signals (e.g., UWB signals).

In an embodiment, a computer system located on the vehicle can detect the signals being transmitted from the portable device and further determine (based on one or more configurations/patterns) that the charging operation is to terminate/cease. For example, upon detecting that a series of signals transmitted from the portable device fit a configuration (e.g., the operator is located at a particular distance from the vehicle and the portable device is being held stationary) a signal can be sent by the on-board computer system to terminate charging of the battery. If the operator is simply walking by the vehicle (e.g., walking through their garage) the system can determine that the motion and/or location of the portable device is not one associated with terminating the charge operation and charging of the battery can be maintained.

In another embodiment, the operator can also make a waving motion while holding the portable device, that motion can be detected and is associated (e.g., in a configuration) with ceasing the charging operation.

The one or more configurations can be edited based upon the local operating conditions, thereby reducing a number of instances that could lead to erroneous control of the battery charging operation. For example, vehicle is parked in a home garage by a door connecting a garden to the kitchen, a configuration(s) can be edited to ignore signals from that region of the garage as it is a frequently used route and by ignoring that region, the number of erroneously initiated charge-terminate signals is reduced.

The various embodiments presented herein are advantageous over current battery charging operations as once configured, an operator of a vehicle (while carrying the portable device) only has to be in proximity of the vehicle to terminate battery charging, with a computer system onboard the vehicle detecting the portable device and controls the battery charging operation without interaction from the vehicle operator. It is to be noted, that while various embodiments presented herein depict a vehicle is currently being charged with charging being terminated based upon detection of the portable device, other operating scenarios are equally applicable to the various embodiments presented herein. For example, a vehicle is connected to a charging station, but no charging is currently occurring. Based upon detection of the portable device local to the vehicle, charging of the battery can be initiated. In another embodiment, based upon detection of the portable device local to the vehicle, physical connection of a charging cable supplying energy to the EV can be unlocked to facilitate removal of the charging cable plug from a charging socket on the electric vehicle.

Turning now to the drawings,FIG.1illustrates a system100that can be utilized to control a charging operation(s) of a battery located on an electric vehicle (EV). System100comprises an EV105with a battery107located on the EV105. Battery107can be charged by an electric charging station110via charging cable115, with cable115connected to EV105via a plug116(e.g., J1772, Combined Charging System (CCS), SAE Combo, Charge de Move (CHAdeMO), TESLA®) located at an end of cable115. During charging, plug116is located in a charging port (charging socket)117on EV105, wherein the port117is connected to the battery107. Charging of the battery107can be controlled by a battery management system (BMS)108, wherein the BMS108can be configured to operate in conjunction with a computer system160with various commands, instructions, data, etc., being communicated between the BMS108and the computer system160, as described further herein.

In an embodiment, a charging operation can be underway at the EV105, with the charging station110supplying charge to the EV105via the cable115. As a function of the charging operation, the charging station110has been coupled with the battery107and BMS108, whereby the various operating checks and handshakes (e.g., regarding charging protocols and conditions) between charging station110and BMS108have been completed (e.g., based upon any of level 1 charging (110-120V), level 2 charging (220-240V), level 3 (400V+) DC fast charging, AC charging, DC charging, battery voltage limit, battery current limit, battery capacity, battery condition, battery deterioration, battery temperature, charge slow down rate, charger capacity, ramping up charging, ramping down charging, charging decay, and the like) and charging has commenced. The various embodiments presented herein relate to any charging operation, whether it is a home charging system (e.g., charging station110is located at a home garage), a public charging station comprising one or more charging stations (e.g., charging station110is one of many charging stations located in the public charging station), etc.

In an embodiment, an operator120(e.g., owner, driver) can be standing or moving (e.g., walking, fast pacing, running) proximate to the EV105. The operator120can be carrying a portable device (also known as a mobile device)125, wherein the portable device125can be any of a keyfob/smartkey, a smartphone, a cellphone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a handheld computing device, a smartwatch, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, or any other suitable device to facilitate one or more embodiments herein. In an embodiment, the portable device125can also have operating thereon a software application126enabling the operator120to log into their account with a company providing the electric charging, to edit one or more configurations192A-n (as further described herein), etc. As further described herein, the portable device125can further include a transceiver127and an antenna129, which can be utilized to transmit signals from the portable device125(e.g., to one or more components/devices located at the EV105), receive signals at the portable device125(e.g., from one or more components/devices located at the EV105), process received signals, etc.

In a further embodiment, an identification signal131(comprising an identification code) can be transmitted (e.g., under instruction of software application126) by the transceiver127at the portable device125, wherein the identification signal131enables the operator120to interface with a billing system at the public charging station to facilitate the operator120accessing their account and conducting an operation such as billing, initiating a charging operation, contactless payment processing, and the like.

In another embodiment, the identification signal131can be transmitted during communication between the portable device125and the EV105, to ensure that the correct portable device125is controlling the battery charging operation of EV105. For example, charging of EV105may occur at a public charging center comprising a plurality of charging stations110, and accordingly, a number of EVs are located there, including EV105. More than one operator (including operator120) may be carrying a portable device configured to control charging of a respective EV to which each respective portable device is communicatively coupled and controls charging thereof. By utilizing a unique identification signal for each portable device, erroneous cessation of charging (and/or maintaining/re-initiating charging) of EV105can be prevented due to a random portable device (e.g., not portable device125) transmitting battery charging control signals using the same communication technology as portable device125being in vicinity of the EV105. The identification signal131enables only communications from portable device125that are configured to operate with EV105to be processed and operated on by the computer system160(and the one or more components operating thereon).

As shown inFIG.1, communications between portable device125and EV105can comprise a plurality of signals135A-n (e.g., radio waves). The signals135A-n can respectively include data136A-n (e.g., a first signal135A includes first data136A, a second signal135B includes second data136B, an nth signal135nincludes nth data136n). The data136A-n can include any of time data, position data, location data, motion data, velocity data, transmission data, and the like, from which a current position/location or motion of the portable device125can be determined (as further explained herein). The plurality of signals135A-n can be received and processed by one or more components located at computer system160, or communicatively coupled to computer system160. In an embodiment, a signaling component170on the computer system160can be configured to control generation of the signals135A-n for transmission to the portable device125. In a further embodiment, a transceiver171can be communicatively coupled to the signaling component170, and the transceiver171can be configured to generate the signals135A-n and initially transmit the signals135A-n to the portable device125(via an antenna172located on the EV105). The transceiver171can be further configured to receive the signals135A-n once they are returned/received from the portable device125and forward the returned signals135A-n, or data pertaining thereto (e.g., timing data), to the signaling component170. The transceiver171can be configured to receive/transmit the plurality of signals135A-n via an antenna172.

In an embodiment, the plurality of signals135A-n can be generated by signaling technology suitable to enable any of the position, location, motion, time, etc., of the portable device125to be determined with a sufficient degree of accuracy by one or more components included in the computer system160. In an embodiment, the signaling technology utilized to generate the plurality of signals135A-n can be ultra-wideband (UWB) frequency technology. UWB technology involves a high transmission rate of radio pulses (e.g., signals135A-n from the portable device125) across a wide spectrum frequency. A UWB transceiver (e.g., transceiver171coupled to computer system160) can transmit/receive the signals135A-n, and one or more components located at computer system160can process data included in, or pertaining to, the signals135A-n to determine the location and/or motion of the portable device125relative to the EV105(as further described herein). UWB technology is beneficial as the generation of the plurality of signals135A-n requires low power with a high bandwidth (e.g., 500 MHz) enabling a large amount of data to be transmitted between the EV105(e.g., by transceiver171) and the portable device125. Further, the signals135A-n are low-power signals that cause minimal interference with other radio technology transmissions that may be present in the vicinity of EV105and/or portable device125. Development of UWB technology continues, with accuracy of detection being continually improved, with accuracies to a fraction of an inch (e.g., DECAWAVE® devices enable distances of 0.78 inches (2 cm) to be determined). Further, UWB technology has an extensive range, for example, UWB technology can be utilized to determine the relative distance (and position) between two devices (e.g., portable device125and EV105) in a line-of-sight operation of up 656 feet (200 meters) based on the IEEE 802.15.4a standard.

It is to be appreciated that while the various embodiments presented herein describe the plurality of signals135A-n being generated using UWB technology, any suitable technology can be utilized to facilitate determination of position, location, motion, etc., of the portable device125. For example, the plurality of signals135A-n can be generated using BLUETOOTH® technology, Wi-Fi technology, RFID technology, and the like.

In an embodiment, Near Field Communication (NFC) radio technology can be utilized, wherein the portable device125has a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) device located thereon (e.g., located into a membership card utilized for a public charging station), and transceiver171generates a radio frequency field which inductively couples with the RFID device located on the portable device125. Based upon the inductive coupling, the signaling component170determines that the RFID-attached portable device125is proximate (e.g., near field) to the transceiver171and based upon how long the RFID-attached portable device125stays proximate to the transceiver171, the location component175(in conjunction with one or more configurations192A-n) can determine whether the operator120intends for the charging of the EV105to be ceased or to continue. In an embodiment, RFID technology can operate in the 13.56 MHz frequency band, as well as any other suitable frequencies applicable to RFID technology.

As further shown inFIG.1, a detection zone140can be configured, and in an embodiment, motion and position of the portable device125outside and/or inside of the detection zone140can be determined, e.g., as the portable device125is being conveyed into, out, or through, the detection zone140by the operator120. The detection zone140can be configured (e.g., via configurations192A-n, as further described herein) with any size to detect location and/or motion of the portable device125, in accordance with at least one of the transmission/detection range of the signals135A-n.

In an embodiment, the antenna172can be located at the port117(as also shown inFIG.2) enabling the proximity of the portable device125to be determined relative to the position of the port117. Hence, when the operator120(conveying the portable device125) is local to the port117, e.g., in readiness to detach the cable115from the port117when charging of the battery107is to be terminated, the presence of the portable device125can be detected and termination (e.g., decoupling) of the charging process can be initiated. However, it is to be appreciated that the antenna172can be located anywhere on EV105to facilitate the one or more embodiments presented herein.

The computer system160can further comprise or be operatively coupled to at least one processor162and at least one memory164. In various embodiments, the at least one memory164can store executable instructions (e.g., a signaling component170, an identification component173, a charge control component180, a location component175, a configuration component190, an image component195, an artificial intelligence (AI) component197, etc.) that when executed by the at least one processor162, facilitate performance of operations defined by the executable instruction. The computer system160can further include a bus166(e.g., a system bus, a device bus) that communicatively couples the various components of the computer system160, e.g., the at least one processor162, the at least one memory164, the signaling component170, the identification component173, the charge control component180, the location component175, the configuration component190, the AI component197. In an embodiment, memory164can have stored therein a plurality of configurations (templates)192A-192n, which can be utilized to determine whether charging of EV105should be maintained or terminated, as further described herein.

In an embodiment, the signaling component170can receive the plurality of signals135A-n from the transceiver171in conjunction with the identification signal(s)131. The signaling component170can operate in conjunction with the identification component173, wherein the identification component173can be configured to analyze the identification signal(s)131to determine that the signals135A-n are being received from portable device125that is configured to control a charging operation(s) at EV105. In the event of an identification signal received at transceiver171does not match the identification signal131that the computer system160is configured to function with, the plurality of signals associated with the unexpected identification signal can be ignored. In the event of the identification signal(s)131has the expected identifier data, the plurality of signals135A-n can be processed by the one or more components comprising the computer system160. It is to be appreciated that whileFIG.1depicts the identification component173located in the computer system160, the identification component173can be located in the transceiver171, where, in an embodiment, the transceiver is located remote from the computer system160. Further, it is to be appreciated that whileFIG.1depicts the transceiver171being externally located to the computer system160(e.g., the transceiver171is utilized by a plurality of components/devices located on EV105), the transceiver171can be incorporated (co-located) into the computer system160.

The location component175can be configured to analyze the plurality of signals135A-n, and any data included therein, to determine any of motion, location, position, etc., of the portable device125. In an embodiment, where the plurality of signals135A-n have been generated using UWB technology or similar technology, the location component175can perform Time-of-Flight (ToF) analysis of the plurality of signals135A-n. ToF analysis can be utilized when two devices (e.g., portable device125and EV105) configured with ToF technology are proximate to each other. When the two devices are proximate to each other, the two devices (e.g., portable device125and computer system160located on EV105) can initiate ranging (measuring, determining) the distance between the two devices. The ToF ranging operation determines how long it takes for a pulse (in the plurality of signals135A-n) to travel from point A (e.g., the antenna172on EV105) to point B (e.g., the antenna129located on portable device125), and then return to point A. In an embodiment, the location component175can use the ToF data obtained from analyzing the plurality of signals135A-n to calculate the location of the portable device125.

The location component175can utilize a plurality of configurations192A-n to facilitate determination of whether the portable device125is being conveyed in such a manner that it can be inferred that the operator120desires the charging of EV105to cease, or alternatively, to be maintained. In an embodiment, the plurality of configurations192A-n can be pre-installed (e.g., by a manufacturer of EV105), and can further be presented for editing of one or more parameters included in respective configurations192A-n as described infra.

In a first example scenario, based upon the plurality of signals135A-n being transmitted between the portable device125and the EV105(e.g., via respective antennas129and172) the location component175determines that the portable device125is within detection zone140(wherein detection zone140can be established based upon a distance from the EV105). A configuration192A has been established with parameters such that, if the portable device125is determined to a) be within detection zone140(satisfying a first parameter) and b) stationary for x seconds (e.g., 4 seconds) (satisfying a second parameter), it can be inferred that the operator120wants the charging of EV105to be terminated (e.g., the operator120wants to drive the EV105). In the event of the location component175determining that the parameters of configuration192A have been satisfied, the location component175can transmit a termination signal176to the charge control component180to terminate charging of the EV105. Accordingly, upon receipt of the termination signal176, the charge control component180can terminate the charging operation and initiate a decoupling between the electric charging station110(via cable115and plug116) and the EV105(via port117). In an embodiment, the charge control component180can initiate termination of the charging operation by transmitting a “terminate charging” signal182to the BMS108, whereupon, upon receipt of the “terminate charging” signal182, the BMS108is configured to perform a decoupling process to cease charging of the EV105. In an alternative embodiment, the location component175can be communicatively coupled directly to the BMS108, with the termination signal176being transmitted directly to the BMS108, whereupon, upon receipt of the termination signal176, the BMS108is configured to perform a decoupling process to cease charging of the EV105and battery107.

In a second example scenario, based upon the plurality of signals135A-n being transmitted between the portable device125and the EV105, the location component175determines that the portable device125is within detection zone140. A configuration192B has been established with parameters such that, if the portable device125is determined to a) be within detection zone140(satisfying a first parameter) and b) leaves prior to required duration of time (as outlined in configuration192A) (satisfying configuration192B's second parameter but not the second parameter of192A), it can be inferred that the operator120does not want to terminate charging of EV105, but rather wants to maintain charging of battery107. Similar to the first example scenario, in the event of the location component175determining that the parameters of configuration192B have been satisfied, the location component175can transmit a maintain signal178to the charge control component180to maintain charging of the EV105. Accordingly, upon receipt of the maintain signal178, the charge control component180can be configured to do nothing and leave the BMS108in a current state of maintaining the charging operation, or the charge control component180can send a “maintain charging” signal184to the BMS108, whereupon the BMS108is configured to maintain the charging of battery107. In an alternative embodiment, the location component175can be communicatively coupled directly to the BMS108, with the maintain signal178being transmitted directly to the BMS108, whereupon, upon receipt of the maintain signal178, the BMS108is maintains the charging of battery107.

In a third example scenario, based upon the plurality of signals135A-n being transmitted between the portable device125and the EV105, the location component175determines that the portable device125is within detection zone140. A configuration192U has been established with parameters such that, if the portable device125is determined to a) be within detection zone140(satisfying a first parameter) and b) stationary for x seconds (e.g., 4 seconds) (satisfying a second parameter), it can be inferred that the operator120wants the charging cable115to be unlocked/released from the EV105to facilitate removal of the charging cable115. In the event of the location component175determining that the parameters of configuration192U have been satisfied, the location component175can transmit an unlock signal179to the charge control component180to initiate the unlocking procedure of cable115. Accordingly, upon receipt of the unlock signal178, the charge control component180can send an “unlock the cable” signal185to the BMS108, whereupon the BMS108is configured to initiate unlocking of the charging cable, as further described herein with reference to at leastFIGS.2,4, and5.

Other configurations and parameter settings can be applied to configurations192A-n. For example, in a fourth example scenario, a configuration192C can be established such that motion of the portable device125into detection zone140has a trajectory determined to be towards the port117(e.g., based upon signals135A-n, signaling component170, location component175, etc.), and it can be inferred in accordance with configuration192C (e.g., the parameters of configuration192C are satisfied) that the operator120conveying the portable device125wants to terminate the charging of battery107. Accordingly, the termination process described with respect to the first example scenario can be performed to terminate charging of battery107.

In another example, a fifth scenario, a configuration192D can be configured such that motion of the portable device125has a trajectory into detection zone140with the speed of motion decreasing as the portable device125is moved closer to the port117(e.g., based upon signals135A-n, signaling component170, location component175, etc.), and it can be inferred in accordance with configuration192D (the parameters of configuration192D are satisfied, e.g., velocity of approach of portable device125is reducing, or velocity of approach of portable device125is less than a pre-configured velocity) that the operator120conveying the portable device125wants to terminate the charging of battery107. Accordingly, the termination process described with the first example scenario can be performed to terminate charging of battery107.

In a further example, a sixth scenario, a configuration192E can be configured such that after the cable115has been connected to the EV105(e.g., plug116is inserted into port117) it is required that the portable device125has to exit the detection zone140for a given duration of time (e.g., x seconds) and then return into detection zone140before charging of the battery107can be terminated.

In a further example, a seventh scenario, a configuration192F can be configured such that if the portable device125is determined (e.g., by the location component175) to be leaving the detection zone140, current charging of the battery107is to be maintained.

Further, in an eighth scenario, a configuration192G can be configured such that if the operator120recently connected plug116to port117, and the portable device125has a motion indicating that the portable device125is being conveyed out of detection zone140(e.g., as determined by the location component175), charging of the battery107is to be initiated.

In a further example, a ninth scenario, a configuration192H can be configured such that if the plug116was recently unlocked at port117and the portable device125is determined (e.g., by the location component175) to be located proximate to EV105(e.g., within detection zone140) for a given period of time (e.g., 10 seconds), charging of the battery107should be initiate or resumed.

In a further example, a tenth scenario, a configuration192I can be configured such that, regardless of position or motion of the portable device125(e.g., as determined by the location component175), plug116should be locked to port117and charging initiated.

In an embodiment, the operator120can be moving the portable device125in an up-down and/or side-to-side motion (a waving motion), and this motion can be captured in the plurality of signals135A-n, e.g., based on a repetitive pattern in the ToF signals. Accordingly, the operator120can readily use the waving motion of the portable device125to indicate their intent for the charging of battery107to cease. In another example of usage, the operator120can use the waving motion of the portable device125to indicate their intent for the charging of battery107to be maintained (where charging is currently being performed) and/or initiated (where charging has been previously ceased). Various configurations192A-n can be configured to capture this motion of the portable device125, e.g., a configuration192J can be configured such that if the motion of the portable device125is determined to be in a waving motion, the charging of battery107is to terminate regardless of whether the operator120is in the detection zone140or is outside of the detection zone140whereby the greater range of the technology generating the plurality of signals135A-n extends beyond a lesser range configured for the detection zone140.

It is to be appreciated that the foregoing example scenarios and configurations192A-n (and respective parameters) are presented simply to provide understanding of the various concepts presented herein, and the various embodiments are not limited to the scenarios presented in the foregoing examples. Any combination of motion of the portable device125, location of the portable device125, trajectory of motion of the portable device125, etc., can be utilized to control ceasing or maintaining charging of the battery107, wherein the configurations192A-n can be configured based up the location, trajectory of motion, motion, lack of motion, etc., of the portable device125and the action to be performed based upon a particular configuration in the plurality of configurations192A-n being satisfied, or not, and whether satisfaction of the particular configuration in the plurality of configurations192A-n indicates that charging of battery107is to be terminated or maintained.

As mentioned, computer system160can also include an AI component197. In an embodiment, the AI component197can monitor operation of the charging operation(s) being conducted on battery107as a function of the position, motion, etc., of portable device125. The AI component197can monitor how successfully the intent of the operator120matches the battery charging operations being controlled by computer system160, BMS108, etc. Based on the degree of success or failure (e.g., as recorded in tally data498, perFIG.4) of the battery charging control operations, the AI component197can recommend one or more edits to configurations192A-n and their respective parameters (FIG.4, parameters420A-n) to improve performance (e.g., success) of the various embodiments presented herein. For example, a configuration192P has a “size of detection zone” that is set too large for a floorspace in which the EV105is parked during charging of battery107. Owing to the overly large detection zone, the motion of an operator120while carrying the portable device125is misinterpreted, and charging of the battery107is erroneously terminated. The AI component197can generate alternative settings for any of the parameters420A-n for presentation (e.g., via HMI410described inFIG.4) to the operator120, to assist the operator120successfully controlling the battery charging operation of battery107. Such an approach can facilitate customizing any manufacturer-created configurations192A-n to take into account the potentially unique operating conditions of the various embodiments presented herein. In another embodiment, to improve the success of the various embodiments presented herein, the AI component197can recommend the operator120select for use a different configuration (in the configurations192A-n) than is currently being used. In an embodiment, the AI component197can compare a current success rate (e.g., per tally data498,FIG.4) and an expected success rate, and make a determination whether to adjust the configuration (e.g., any of configurations192A-n)

FIG.2illustrates an example system200that can be utilized to control a charging operation(s) being conducted at an EV105. System200is a close-up view of the plug116and port117configuration, as previously described inFIG.1. As previously mentioned, and as shown inFIG.2, the electric charging station110is connected to the EV105(and battery107) via the cable115, with the plug116located in the port117. In an embodiment, electrical energy from cable115can be conveyed directly to battery107, via connection205. Further, BMS108can be coupled to computer system160, with computer system160also coupled to antenna172, a light220, and/or a charging button290.

As shown inFIG.2, a charging cover (door, flap)210is in an open position to facilitate the connection of the plug116to the port117. As further shown inFIG.2, the plug116can be secured/locked in place in the port117, wherein, in an embodiment, a pin201located in the internal surface of the port117can engage with a hole202located on the external/mating surface of the plug116. Operation of the pin201, e.g., engagement of pin201within the hole202and/or withdrawal of the pin201from the hole202can be performed by any suitable device. In an embodiment, the pin201can be operated by a servomotor203(or similar apparatus), wherein, operation of the servomotor203can be controlled by the BMS108. For example, upon receipt of an unlock the cable signal185from the charge control component180, the BMS108can generate an “unlock” signal204, which upon receipt by the servomotor203, the servomotor203is configured to disengage the pin201from the hole202, enabling subsequent removal of the plug116from the port117to facilitate disconnection of the charging cable115from the EV105.

As further shown inFIG.2, the antenna172can be located (incorporated into) local to the port117. In an embodiment, having the antenna172located proximate to the port117enables detection of the plurality of signals135A-n being transmitted from the portable device125(via antenna129) to be determined local to the port117. For example, the detection zone140can be centered on antenna172(as depicted inFIG.1) such that detection and motion monitoring of the portable device125can be conducted with regard to the position of the operator120relative to the location of the port117on the EV105. Accordingly, with reference toFIG.1, when the operator is near the EV105but at a position remote from the port117, e.g., as shown at position P onFIG.1(front far side of EV105), any signals135A-n can be ignored by the transceiver171and computer system160as the operator is effectively remote to the port117. However, if the operator120advances from position P towards, and into detection zone140, the position and/or motion of the portable device125can begin to be determined by the one or more components comprising computer system160, as previously described.

In another embodiment, as shown inFIG.2, a light220can be located proximate to the port117. In an embodiment, the light220can provide visual feedback regarding whether the portable device125has been detected (or no longer detected) proximate to the port117, with operation of the light controlled by one or more components comprising computer system160. For example, when the charging cover210is in the open position (e.g., to facilitate connection of the plug116in port117), the light220can be visible to the operator120. The light220can be any suitable light device, e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED). The light220can be configured (under control of computer system160) to emit a range of colors based upon detection of the portable device125, the charging operation being performed at the port117, and the like. Per the following examples, (a) when the battery107is being charged, the light220is constantly lit green; (b) when the charging operation is being initiated (e.g., BMS108is interfacing with the charging station110) the light220can be configured to flash and emit a green flashing light; (c) when the charging operation is being terminated the light220can be configured to flash and emit a yellow flashing light; (d) when no charging of battery107is being performed the light220can be configured to be constantly lit red; (e) if the portable device125is detected proximate to the antenna172the light can be configured to flash white; and the like.

Hence, in the event of the portable device125being detected and per the various embodiments described herein, the charging of battery107is being terminated based upon the determined location and/or motion of the portable device125, the light220can be configured to flash alternating between a yellow light (indicating the charging operation is being terminated) and a white light (indicating the portable device125has been detected and the charging operation is being terminated based on the presence of the portable device125and one or more configuration192A-n). In another embodiment, the light220can further provide visual feedback regarding the charging status of the battery107. It is to be noted that the colors described herein are merely examples and any colors, sequence of colors, etc., can be configured.

In a further embodiment, as illustrated inFIG.2, a charging button290can be located proximate to port117, wherein the charging button290can be configured to control charging of the battery107. For example, the operator120intends for the charging operation to terminate charging, continue charging, or initiate charging regardless of what the computer system160(and the various components operating thereon) determines the intent of the operator120to be. Accordingly, the charging button290can be utilized as an override to one or more operations being performed by the computer system160. As mentioned above, the operator120can determine the current charging status of the battery107based upon the status of light220. Accordingly, the operator120can utilize the charging button290to switch through the respective charging operations, as required.

FIG.3illustrates an example system300that can be utilized to control a charging operation(s) being conducted at an EV105. System300illustrates a portable device125being conveyed (e.g., by operator120) towards an EV105. As shown, and as previously described, (ref.FIGS.1and2), the battery107is connected to a charging station110via a cable115, wherein the cable115is coupled to port117via plug116. As previously described, a detection zone140can be configured and centered about the port117, with motion and positioning of the portable device125in the detection zone140being detected by one or more components included in the computer system160. Based upon the determined location and/or motion of the portable device125relative to EV105, a charging operation of the battery107can be controlled, e.g., by one or more components included in the computer system160in conjunction with the BMS108.

To further facilitate location of the portable device125and/or the operator120relative to the location of the EV105, one or more supplemental devices can be utilized, thereby further enhancing any of the various embodiments presented herein for detecting the portable device125and, accordingly, control of the charging operation of battery107. In an embodiment, one or more cameras310A-n located on EV105can be utilized to provide supplemental information regarding the position and motion of the portable device125and/or the operator120. For example, a camera310A is located in a wing mirror320of the EV105, while camera310nis located above the port117. In an embodiment, the camera310A (and similarly camera310n) can be facing towards the rear of EV105such that the port117is in the field of view of the camera310A. Hence, in the event of signals135A-n transmitted from the portable device125being detected at the antenna172(not shown), computer system160can also capture image data330from the camera310A, wherein the image data330can be in the form of digital images, a digital video, and the like. The image component195located in the computer system160(ref.FIG.1) can be configured to process the image data330. For example, the image component195can process the image data330and determine whether a person captured in the image data330is the operator120(e.g., by facial recognition, body mass, etc.). In another example, the image component195can process the image data330to determine a position of a person (e.g., operator120) relative to the EV105and/or motion of the person relative to the EV105.

In a further embodiment, a parking sensor340can be utilized to detect a presence of the operator120and/or the portable device125. The parking sensor340can be configured to utilize any suitable technology, e.g., ultrasonic technology, acoustic technology, radio wave technology, imaging technology, and the like. As illustrated inFIG.3, the parking sensor340located near the port117can provide sensor data350regarding the position of the operator120and/or the portable device125, wherein the sensor data350can be provided to the computer system160to supplement the data136A-n in signals135A-n to further enable determination of the operator120and/or portable device125, e.g., to minimize erroneous change in state of a charging operation being undertaken of battery107.

FIG.4illustrates an example system400that can be utilized to control a battery charging operation(s) being conducted at an EV105.FIG.4illustrates a human machine interface (HMI)410being utilized to edit one or more of the configurations192A-n, wherein the HMI410can operate in conjunction with the computer system160, and one or more components located thereon. As previously mentioned, the configurations192A-n can include a plurality of parameters420A-n, whereby adjustment of the parameters420A-n enables a plurality of configurations192A-n to be configured to facilitate controlling the charging of battery107as a function of the motion and/or location of the portable device125.

In an embodiment, the HMI410can be located in, or form part, of a dashboard/display console located on EV105(e.g., in the interior of EV105). In another embodiment, the HMI410can be presented as part of an application (e.g., software application126) displayed on the portable device125whereby configurations, parameters, settings, etc., can be edited on the portable device125and transmitted to the computer system160to update any settings stored thereon.

As previously mentioned regardingFIG.1, the configurations192A-n can be stored in a memory164, whereby a display component430operating on computer system160can be configured to display the respective configurations192A-n on the HMI410.FIG.4illustrates configurations192A-n being presented on HMI410. A selection component440in computer system160can be configured to select a configuration for further display, whereby in the example presented inFIG.4, configuration192B has been selected, and parameters420A-n are presented on the HMI410screen. In a non-limiting list, the parameters420A-n can include “motion”, “position/location”, “trajectory of motion”, “size of detection zone”, “time in detection zone”, “inside/outside detection zone”, “time of day”, “action”, and the like. It is to be appreciated that any parameter can be presented on HMI410, wherein the parameter(s) can be utilized to facilitate determining motion and location of the portable device125and controlling charging of battery107, based thereon. An edit component450located in computer system160can be configured to enable editing/setting of a value for each of the parameters420A-n (e.g., values adjusted by entering a value, using a slider, etc.).

Parameters420A-n can also include an “action” parameter for presentment, whereby, in the event of a configuration192A-n (e.g.,192B) being satisfied, e.g., the various parameters420A-n configured for the respective configuration (e.g.,192B), the set “action” can be utilized to control operation of the charging of battery107. For example, if the “motion” parameter in parameters420A-n for configuration192B is set to “waving” and the “action” is set to “terminate”, in the event of the portable device125is determined (e.g., by location component175) to being moved with a waving action, it is determined that the person waving the portable device125wants to cease charging of the battery107, a “terminate charging” signal182can be transmitted to the BMS108for the BMS108to initiate termination of charging of battery107.

In an alternative example scenario, the parameters420A-n could be configured such that “time in zone” is set to ‘more than 5 seconds’, “trajectory” is set to ‘towards EV’, and “action” is set to ‘terminate’. It is determined that the portable device125(conveyed by operator120) has a trajectory of motion towards the EV105(e.g., into detection zone140), but the portable device125is determined to only be in the detection zone140for less than 3 seconds. Accordingly, no ‘termination’ signal is transmitted to the BMS108based on this configuration. In an alternative embodiment, in view of the portable device125being detected in the detection zone140but for an insufficient period of time, a “maintain charging” signal184can be transmitted to the BMS108.

In a further embodiment, as previously described, an operating condition can be the EV105is connected to the charging station110via cable115, with plug116engaged in socket117, but the battery107is not undergoing charge (e.g., the charging operation of battery107may have ceased as battery107has reached a desired charged). The plug116is secured in the socket117by the pin201engaged in hole202. Accordingly, the “action” parameter can be configured to “unlock the cable”, whereby, when the various parameters420A-n for a configuration (e.g., a configuration192U) have been satisfied, an “unlock” signal can be transmitted to the BMS108, which further controls the plug116to be unlocked from the socket117(e.g., an unlock signal from the BMS108causes the servomotor203to withdraw the pin201from the hole202) for subsequent disconnection of the cable115from the EV105.

In another embodiment, as shown inFIG.4, a charging button490can be displayed on the HMI410, wherein the charging button490can control charging of the battery107. The charging button490can be configured to have functionality comparable to those of the charging button290, as described with reference toFIG.2. In an embodiment, to assist the operator120to select their desired charging operation, based upon the selected state of the charging button490, a first indicator491can be presented indicating that TERMINATE charging has been selected, a second indicator492CHARGE (e.g., maintain charging, or re-initiate charging) has been selected, or a third indicator493UNLOCK (e.g., unlock the charging cable115from the EV (e.g., plug116from port117, via pin201extracted from hole202) has been selected.

In a further embodiment, computer system160can further comprise a monitor component494, wherein the monitor component494can be configured to keep a tally of the success of the various embodiments presented herein regarding successful termination, maintaining, initiating of a charging operation of the battery107. As shown, HMI410can display action buttons495and496which can be utilized by the operator120to indicate how successfully the computer system160is correctly determining the intent of the operator120regarding the charging operation to be performed. In the event of the computer system160is correctly determining the intent, the operator120can select “YES” action button495, and alternatively, where the intent is being incorrectly determined, the120can select “NO” action button496. The respective YES and NO entries can be tallied, e.g., as tally data498, which can be stored in memory164of the computer system160. As further described herein, AI component197can review the tally data498to determine whether adjustments need to be made to a currently utilized configuration (e.g., any of selected configurations192A-n), or an alternative configuration (e.g., any of configurations192A-n) should be utilized to improve successful operation of the one or more embodiments presented herein. The tally data498can be supplemented based upon the status of the charging button490with regard to how quickly the charging button490was selected after the charging operation (e.g., terminate charging) was applied using charging button490. In an embodiment, information regarding the configurations192A-n, e.g., respective setting of parameters420A-n, tally data498, can be transmitted to the manufacturer (e.g., via wi-fi, the cloud, etc.) to assist with further development of the configurations.

FIGS.5-9illustrate example, non-limiting methodologies relating to controlling a battery charging operation at an EV. While the methodologies are shown and described as being a series of acts that are performed in a sequence, it is to be understood and appreciated that the methodologies are not limited by the order of the sequence. For example, some acts can occur in a different order than what is described herein. In addition, an act can occur concurrently with another act. Further, in some instances, not all acts may be required to implement the methodologies described herein. The various methodologies presented herein can be applicable to at least the various embodiments presented herein, e.g., as discussed with at least reference toFIGS.1-4.

FIG.5illustrates a flow diagram for a computer-implemented methodology500for controlling a charging operation of a battery (e.g., battery107) located on an EV (e.g., EV105) based upon determining location and/or motion of a portable device (e.g., portable device125) proximate to the EV.

At505, the computer-implemented method500can comprise detecting, by a system operatively coupled to a processor (e.g., signaling component170, location component175) at least one of motion and/or location of a portable device (e.g., portable device125) proximate to an EV (e.g., EV105), wherein a battery (e.g., battery107) is currently undergoing a charging operation, e.g., at a charging station (e.g., electric charging station110).

At510, the computer-implemented method500can further comprise terminating the charging operation of the battery (e.g., battery107) based upon the at least one of motion and/or location of the portable device (e.g., portable device125).

At515, the computer-implemented method500can further comprise unlocking a charging cable connected to the EV, e.g., via a charging port. In an embodiment, the charging cable is connected to the EV by a plug (e.g., plug116) located in the charging port (e.g., port117). The plug can be secured in the port by any suitable means, e.g., a pin (e.g., pin201) incorporated into the port can engage with a hole (e.g., hole202) incorporated into the plug. Engagement/disengagement of the pin in the hole can be controlled by a locking component (e.g., a servomotor203). Operation of the locking component (e.g., engagement/disengagement of the pin in the hole) can be controlled based upon a signal received from a component/device (e.g., BMS108) configured to control one or more charging operations of the battery (e.g., battery107).

It is to be appreciated that whileFIG.5has been described depicting the methodology progressing from505to510to515, an operating condition can occur where the battery (e.g., battery107) is currently not being charged, but the EV (e.g., EV105) is connected to a charging station (e.g., charging station110) via a cable (115), e.g., the charging plug (e.g., plug116) is located in the charging port (e.g., port117), and secured (e.g., by pin201in hole202). Accordingly, under such operating condition, the methodology500can go from505to515, wherein, upon detection of the portable device (e.g., portable device125), the plug is unlocked from the port by disengaging the pin (e.g., pin201) from the hole (e.g., hole202), enabling the plug to be removed from the port.

FIG.6illustrates a flow diagram for a computer-implemented methodology600for controlling a charging operation of a battery (e.g., battery107) located on an EV (e.g., EV105) based upon determining location and/or motion of a portable device (e.g., portable device125) proximate to the EV.

At605, the computer-implemented method600can comprise receiving (e.g., by transceiver171and antenna172) signals (e.g., signals135A-n) transmitted from a device (e.g., portable device125), wherein the signals comprise data (e.g., data136A-n) from which at least one of a motion and/or a location of the device can be determined.

At610, the computer-implemented method600can further comprise comparing (e.g., by location component175) respective data (e.g., data136A-n) in the signals (e.g., signals135A-n) to determine the at least one of motion and/or location of the device (e.g., portable device125). In an embodiment, the determination of the at least one of motion and/or location of the portable device can be based upon any suitable technology/methodology, e.g., a ToF process. In an embodiment, the data can indicate respective periods of time it took the respective signals to be transmitted from the EV to the portable device, and return to the EV. Differences or similarities between the respective times can indicate whether the portable device is being held stationary, being waved, moving towards the EV, moving away from the EV, etc.

At615, the computer-implemented method600can further comprise comparing the at least one determined motion and/or location of the device (e.g., portable device125) with at least one configuration (e.g., configurations192A-n), wherein the at least one configuration can be utilized to determine (e.g., by location component175) whether charging of a battery (e.g., battery107) is to be terminated or maintained based upon the at least one of determined motion or location.

At620, the computer-implemented method600can further comprise, based upon the comparison process identified at615, controlling whether the charging operation of the battery (e.g., battery107) is to be terminated or continued? In the event of determining YES, based on the at least one configuration in conjunction with the at least one motion and/or location of the device, the charging of the battery is to be terminated, the computer-implemented method600advances to625.

At625, the computer-implemented method600can further comprise generating (e.g., by charge control component180) “terminate charging” signal (e.g., “terminate charging” signal182).

At630, the computer-implemented method600can further comprise transmitting the “terminate charging” signal (e.g., “terminate charging” signal182) to a component (e.g., BMS108) controlling one or more charging operations of the battery.

At635, the computer-implemented method600can further comprise, in response to receiving the “terminate charging” signal, initiating (e.g., by BMS108) one or more “decoupling” operations between the battery and a charging station (e.g., charging station110) currently connected (“coupled”) to the battery (e.g., battery107). As previously mentioned (ref.FIG.1), during an initiation of charging between the charging station and the battery, various operating checks and handshakes (e.g., regarding charging protocols and conditions) between the charging station and the system (e.g., BMS108) controlling charging of the battery occur. Similarly, various operating checks and handshakes can occur during the decoupling process when charging of the battery is being terminated. In an embodiment, the EV can now be physically decoupled from the charging station, e.g., by unplugging a charging cable (e.g., cable115) by removing a plug (e.g., plug116) from a charging port (e.g., port117), e.g., in preparation for the EV to be driven. In another embodiment, the EV can remain physically coupled to the charging station, but the charging of the battery has been terminated. With the scenario of the EV remaining physically coupled to the charging station, the computer-implemented method600can advance to640, wherein operations for receiving/detecting one or more signals (e.g., signals135A-n) from the portable device can continue by one or more components located on the EV (e.g., transceiver171, signaling component170, etc.). Accordingly, the computer-implemented method600can return to605, for the various operations presented inFIG.6to be subsequently performed.

Returning to620, based on the at least one configuration (e.g., any of configurations192A-n) in conjunction with the at least one motion and/or location of the portable device (e.g., portable device125), that NO, the charging of the battery (e.g., battery107) is to be maintained at645. The computer-implemented method600advances to645wherein operations for receiving/detecting one or more signals from the device can continue by one or more components located on the EV (e.g., transceiver171, signaling component170, etc.). Accordingly, the computer-implemented method600can return to605, for one or more of the various operations presented inFIG.6to be subsequently performed.

FIG.7illustrates a flow diagram for a computer-implemented methodology700for controlling a charging operation of a battery (e.g., battery107) located on an EV (e.g., EV105) based upon determining location and/or motion of a device (e.g., portable device125) proximate to the EV.

At705, the computer-implemented method700can comprise receiving (e.g., by transceiver171and antenna172) a first signal (e.g., signal135A) transmitted from the device (e.g., portable device125), wherein the first signal includes first data (e.g., data136A) regarding at least one of a first motion and/or a first position of the device.

At710, the computer-implemented method700can comprise further receiving (e.g., by transceiver171and antenna172) a second signal (e.g., signal135B) transmitted from the device (e.g., portable device125), wherein the second signal includes second data (e.g., data136B) regarding at least one of a second motion and/or a second position of the device.

At715, the computer-implemented method700can further comprise comparing the first data (e.g., data136A) with the second data (e.g., data136B) to determine the first position and/or first motion of the device relative to the second position and/or second motion. As previously described, any suitable approach can be utilized to determine respective motions and positions of the device. In an example embodiment, a ToF operation can be utilized (e.g., by location component175) whereby a first time-of-flight of the first signal being transmitted and received by the EV (e.g., via transceiver171and antenna172) via transmission to the device (e.g., via antenna129) can be determined. And a second time-of-flight of the second signal being transmitted and received by the EV (e.g., via transceiver171and antenna172) via transmission to the device (e.g., via antenna129) can be determined. In an alternative embodiment (e.g., a non-ToF operation), the portable device can be aware of its own position (e.g., by cellphone tower triangulation), with the first data and second data being any of position, location, motion, time, etc., being generated and transmitted by one or more components included in the portable device for detection and processing by one or more components located on the EV.

At720, the computer-implemented method700can further comprise determining a position and/or location of the device. In an embodiment, by comparing the first time-of-flight of the first signal (e.g., signal135A) and the second time-of-flight of the second signal (e.g., signal135B), it is possible to determine any of a computed location/position and/or computed motion of the device. For example, if the first time-of-flight has a duration longer than the second time-of-flight (e.g., time data136A>time data136B), a determination can be made that the device is being conveyed towards the EV as it took less time for the second signal to arrive (return) at the EV than the first signal. In another example, if the first time-of-flight has a duration shorter than the second time-of-flight (e.g., time data136A<time data136B), a determination can be made that the device is being conveyed away from the EV as it is took less time for the first signal to arrive (return) at the EV than the second signal. In a further example, if the first time-of-flight has a duration equivalent, or nearly equivalent, to the second time-of-flight (e.g., time data136A time data136B), a determination can be made that the device is stationary as the first time-of-flight and second time-of-flight are effectively the same and the device did not move a significant distance between the time the first signal was transmitted and the second signal was transmitted.

In another example, by knowing the time-of-flight for a signal to be transmitted from the device over a given distance, it is possible to determine how far away the device is to a receiver (e.g., transceiver171). Accordingly, it is possible to determine whether the device is within a particular range of the EV, which enables a determination of whether the device is inside or outside of a defined distance (e.g., detection zone140) from the receiver (e.g., transceiver171).

At725, the computer-implemented method700can further comprise controlling the charging of a battery (e.g., battery107) at the device (e.g., portable device125) based at least in part in comparing at least one of the computed motion and/or the computed position with one or more parameters included in one or more configurations (e.g., configurations192A-n). As previously described (e.g.,FIGS.1,4,6), one or more configurations (e.g., configurations192A-n) can be created, wherein the one or more configurations comprise parameters (e.g., parameters420A-n) including “motion”, “position/location”, “trajectory of motion”, “size of detection zone”, “time in detection zone”, “inside/outside detection zone”, “time of day”, “action”, etc. With reference toFIG.4, various scenarios are presented in which the determined position, motion, distance of the device (e.g., portable device125) relative to the EV (e.g., distance of the device to transceiver171) is compared with respective configurations (e.g., configurations192A-n) and the respective parameter settings (e.g., parameters420A-n). Further, the respective configurations can also have an “action” parameter which indicates an activity to be undertaken when the parameters of the configuration are met, for example, charging of the battery on the EV is ceased, or is maintained. Hence, when the respective parameters of the respective configuration are satisfied/met, the action defined for the respective configuration is enacted. Thus, in an embodiment, (and as previously described herein) where the computed location/position and/or computed motion of the device satisfy the various parameter settings configured for a particular configuration, the defined “action” can be undertaken: “action”=‘cease charging’, ‘continue charging’, etc. (e.g., by charge control component180transmitting an action to the BMS108for BMS108to operate in accordance with).

FIG.8illustrates a flow diagram for a computer-implemented methodology800for adjusting parameters in a configuration for controlling a charging operation of a battery (e.g., battery107) located on an EV (e.g., EV105) based upon determining location and/or motion of a device (e.g., portable device125) proximate to the EV.

At805, the computer-implemented method800can comprise accessing a configuration (e.g., any of configurations192A-n) stored in a memory (e.g., memory164) accessible by a processor (e.g., processor162), wherein the configuration includes one or more parameters (e.g., parameters420A-n), and the configuration and associated parameters can be utilized in controlling the charging operation of the battery (e.g., battery107). In an embodiment, the configuration can be pre-set, e.g., factory-set by the manufacturer, and an operator (e.g., operator120) of the EV wants to amend the configuration to suit their particular needs regarding a battery charging operation to be performed based upon the determined location and or motion of the portable device (e.g., portable device125).

At810, the computer-implemented method800can further comprise editing one or more of the parameters (e.g., parameters420A-n) included in the configuration (e.g., any of configurations192A-n). Editing (adjusting, configuring) of the one or more parameters enables the configuration to be amended based upon, for example, conditions in which the battery charging operation occurs, e.g., to accommodate the shape of a building interior (e.g., inside of a garage) in which the respective battery charging operations occur. As well as setting a particular parameter, e.g., a zone of detection for the device (e.g., “size of detection zone” of detection zone140), an “action” can be set to be undertaken when the respective parameters comprising the configuration being edited are met during detecting the mobile device relative to the EV, e.g., terminate charging, maintain charging, re-initiate charging, etc. Editing of one or more of the respective parameters creates a new version of the configuration. As previously described, editing of one or more configurations can be performed via a HMI (e.g., HMI410) or via a software application (e.g., software application126) operating on the device.

At815, the computer-implemented method800can further comprise storing (e.g., in memory164) the newly adjusted configuration (e.g., an edited version of any of configurations192A-n), wherein the newly adjusted configuration can be saved and replace/overwrite the previous version of the configuration or saved as a new configuration to be added to the existing saved configurations.

At820, the computer-implemented method800can further comprise utilizing the newly adjusted configuration (e.g., an edited version of any of configurations192A-n), wherein the newly adjusted configuration can be retrieved (e.g., via the HMI410or the software application126) and implemented for use in controlling a charging operation of a battery (e.g., battery107) located on an EV (e.g., EV105) based upon determining location and/or motion of a device (e.g., portable device125) in accordance with the various embodiments presented herein.

FIG.9illustrates a flow diagram for a computer-implemented methodology900for improving the success of a battery charging operation being performed correctly.

At900, the computer-implemented method900can comprise monitoring the respective battery charging operations (e.g., terminate charging, maintain charging, initiate charging) of a battery (e.g., battery107) located on an EV (e.g., EV105) based upon interpretation of position, motion, etc., of a device (e.g., portable device125) by an operator (e.g., operator120), versus the intent of the operator regarding the battery charging operation to be performed. Monitoring can be based upon identifying a subsequent action undertaken by the operator after an action has been automatically performed by the various systems presented herein. For example, the computer system (computer system160) determines based upon location/motion of the device that the operator intends for the current battery charging operation to cease. However, the operator was merely walking by the EV with no intent for the battery charging operation to cease, accordingly, the operator re-initiates the battery charging operation (e.g., by selecting the operation with charging button490). In an alternative embodiment, the operator can provide direct feedback regarding the computing system correctly determining the intent of the operator regarding the charging operation, e.g., feedback can be provided via a HMI (e.g., via respective action buttons495and496presented on HMI410). The change in charging status (e.g., per charging button490selection) and/or feedback (per action buttons495and496) can be tallied (e.g., in tally data498) for further review.

At910, the success of the computing system can be determined (e.g., by AI component197) based upon the tally (e.g., tally data498) versus a threshold value. For example, the threshold is set to 100% but the tally is only at 78% correctness. Accordingly, the AI component determines that operation of the computing system can be improved.

At915, the AI component (e.g., AI component197) recommends one of one or more parameters (any of parameters420A-n) be adjusted for a given configuration (e.g., any of configurations192A-n) to improve the success of that configuration, or another configuration be selected that may have greater likelihood of success. In an embodiment, the proposed parameter adjustment(s) or new configuration(s) can be presented to the operator (e.g., operator120) via the HMI410, so as (a) enable selection and (b) allow the operator to understand the changes being recommended by the AI component.

At920, in response to the operator (e.g., operator120) selecting (a) adjustment of a currently used configuration (e.g., any of configurations192A-n) or (b) an alternative configuration (e.g., any of configurations192A-n) being selected for utilization by the computing system (e.g., computer system160), the selection can be applied to the computer system. The flow of methodology900can return to905for further monitoring of the battery charging operation with the newly applied parameter settings or configuration, and the success based thereon.

Turning next toFIGS.10and11, a detailed description is provided of additional context for the one or more embodiments described herein withFIGS.1-9.

In order to provide a context for the various aspects of the disclosed subject matter,FIG.10as well as the following discussion are intended to provide a general description of a suitable environment in which the various aspects of the disclosed subject matter can be implemented.FIG.10illustrates a block diagram of an example, non-limiting operating environment in which one or more embodiments described herein can be facilitated. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity. With reference toFIG.10, a suitable operating environment1000for implementing various aspects of this disclosure can also include a computer1012. The computer1012can also include a processing unit1014, a system memory1016, and a system bus1018. The system bus1018couples system components including, but not limited to, the system memory1016to the processing unit1014. The processing unit1014can be any of various available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multiprocessor architectures also can be employed as the processing unit1014. The system bus1018can be any of several types of bus structure(s) including the memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus or external bus, and/or a local bus using any variety of available bus architectures including, but not limited to, Industrial Standard Architecture (ISA), Micro-Channel Architecture (MSA), Extended ISA (EISA), Intelligent Drive Electronics (IDE), VESA Local Bus (VLB), Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), Card Bus, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Advanced Graphics Port (AGP), Firewire (IEEE 1394), and Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI). The system memory1016can also include volatile memory1020and nonvolatile memory1022. The basic input/output system (BIOS), containing the basic routines to transfer information between elements within the computer1012, such as during start-up, is stored in nonvolatile memory1022. By way of illustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory1022can include read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, or nonvolatile random access memory (RAM) (e.g., ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM). Volatile memory1020can also include random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM), direct Rambus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and Rambus dynamic RAM.

Computer1012can also include removable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatile computer storage media.FIG.10illustrates, for example, a disk storage1024. Disk storage1024can also include, but is not limited to, devices like a magnetic disk drive, floppy disk drive, tape drive, Jaz drive, Zip drive, LS-100 drive, flash memory card, or memory stick. The disk storage1024also can include storage media separately or in combination with other storage media including, but not limited to, an optical disk drive such as a compact disk ROM device (CD-ROM), CD recordable drive (CD-R Drive), CD rewritable drive (CD-RW Drive) or a digital versatile disk ROM drive (DVD-ROM). To facilitate connection of the disk storage1024to the system bus1018, a removable or non-removable interface is typically used, such as interface1026.FIG.10also depicts software that acts as an intermediary between users and the basic computer resources described in the suitable operating environment1000. Such software can also include, for example, an operating system1028. Operating system1028, which can be stored on disk storage1024, acts to control and allocate resources of the computer1012. System applications1030take advantage of the management of resources by operating system1028through program modules1032and program data1034, e.g., stored either in system memory1016or on disk storage1024. It is to be appreciated that this disclosure can be implemented with various operating systems or combinations of operating systems. A user enters commands or information into the computer1012through input device(s)1036. Input devices1036include, but are not limited to, a pointing device such as a mouse, trackball, stylus, touch pad, keyboard, microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, TV tuner card, digital camera, digital video camera, web camera, and the like. These and other input devices connect to the processing unit1014through the system bus1018via interface port(s)1038. Interface port(s)1038include, for example, a serial port, a parallel port, a game port, and a universal serial bus (USB). Output device(s)1040use some of the same type of ports as input device(s)1036. Thus, for example, a USB port can be used to provide input to computer1012, and to output information from computer1012to an output device1040. Output adapter1042is provided to illustrate that there are some output devices1040like monitors, speakers, and printers, among other output devices1040, which require special adapters. The output adapters1042include, by way of illustration and not limitation, video and sound cards that provide a means of connection between the output device1040and the system bus1018. It should be noted that other devices and/or systems of devices provide both input and output capabilities such as remote computer(s)1044.

Computer1012can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as remote computer(s)1044. The remote computer(s)1044can be a computer, a server, a router, a network PC, a workstation, a microprocessor based appliance, a peer device or other common network node and the like, and typically can also include many or all of the elements described relative to computer1012. For purposes of brevity, only a memory storage device1046is illustrated with remote computer(s)1044. Remote computer(s)1044is logically connected to computer1012through a network interface1048and then physically connected via communication connection1050. Network interface1048encompasses wire and/or wireless communication networks such as local-area networks (LAN), wide-area networks (WAN), cellular networks, etc. LAN technologies include Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), Copper Distributed Data Interface (CDDI), Ethernet, Token Ring and the like. WAN technologies include, but are not limited to, point-to-point links, circuit switching networks like Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDN) and variations thereon, packet switching networks, and Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL). Communication connection(s)1050refers to the hardware/software employed to connect the network interface1048to the system bus1018. While communication connection1050is shown for illustrative clarity inside computer1012, it can also be external to computer1012. The hardware/software for connection to the network interface1048can also include, for example purposes only, internal and external technologies such as, modems including regular telephone grade modems, cable modems and DSL modems, ISDN adapters, and Ethernet cards.

The illustrated embodiments described herein can be employed relative to distributed computing environments (e.g., cloud computing environments), such as described below with respect toFIG.11, where certain tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules can be located both in local and/or remote memory storage devices.

For example, one or more embodiments described herein and/or one or more components thereof can employ one or more computing resources of the cloud computing environment1102described below with reference to illustration1100ofFIG.11. For instance, one or more embodiments described herein and/or components thereof can employ such one or more resources to execute one or more: mathematical function, calculation and/or equation; computing and/or processing script; algorithm; model (e.g., artificial intelligence (AI) model, machine learning (ML) model, deep learning (DL) model, and/or like model); and/or other operation in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein.

It is to be understood that although one or more embodiments described herein include a detailed description on cloud computing, implementation of the teachings recited herein are not limited to a cloud computing environment. Rather, one or more embodiments described herein are capable of being implemented in conjunction with any other type of computing environment now known or later developed. That is, the one or more embodiments described herein can be implemented in a local environment only, and/or a non-cloud-integrated distributed environment, for example.

A cloud computing environment can provide one or more of low coupling, modularity and/or semantic interoperability. At the heart of cloud computing is an infrastructure that includes a network of interconnected aspects.

Moreover, the non-limiting systems100-400can be associated with and/or be included in cloud-based and/or partially-cloud-based system.

Referring now to details of one or more elements illustrated atFIG.11, an illustrative cloud computing environment1100is depicted.FIG.11is a schematic block diagram of a computing environment1100with which the disclosed subject matter can interact. The system1100comprises one or more remote component(s)1110. The remote component(s)1110can be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). In some embodiments, remote component(s)1110can be a distributed computer system, connected to a local automatic scaling component and/or programs that use the resources of a distributed computer system, via communication framework1140. Communication framework1140can comprise wired network devices, wireless network devices, mobile devices, wearable devices, radio access network devices, gateway devices, femtocell devices, servers, etc.

The system1100also comprises one or more local component(s)1120. The local component(s)1120can be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). In some embodiments, local component(s)1120can comprise an automatic scaling component and/or programs that communicate/use the remote resources1110and1120, etc., connected to a remotely located distributed computing system via communication framework1140.

One possible communication between a remote component(s)1110and a local component(s)1120can be in the form of a data packet adapted to be transmitted between two or more computer processes. Another possible communication between a remote component(s)1110and a local component(s)1120can be in the form of circuit-switched data adapted to be transmitted between two or more computer processes in radio time slots. The system1100comprises a communication framework1140that can be employed to facilitate communications between the remote component(s)1110and the local component(s)1120, and can comprise an air interface, e.g., Uu interface of a UMTS network, via a long-term evolution (LTE) network, etc. Remote component(s)1110can be operably connected to one or more remote data store(s)1150, such as a hard drive, solid state drive, SIM card, device memory, etc., that can be employed to store information on the remote component(s)1110side of communication framework1140. Similarly, local component(s)1120can be operably connected to one or more local data store(s)1130, that can be employed to store information on the local component(s)1120side of communication framework1140.

The embodiments described herein can be directed to one or more of a system, a method, an apparatus, and/or a computer program product at any possible technical detail level of integration. The computer program product can include a computer readable storage medium (or media) having computer readable program instructions thereon for causing a processor to carry out aspects of the one or more embodiments described herein. The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible device that can retain and store instructions for use by an instruction execution device. The computer readable storage medium can be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a superconducting storage device, and/or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium can also include the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon and/or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A computer readable storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves and/or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide and/or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), and/or electrical signals transmitted through a wire.

Computer readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded to respective computing/processing devices from a computer readable storage medium and/or to an external computer or external storage device via a network, for example, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network and/or a wireless network. The network can comprise copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers, and/or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing/processing device receives computer readable program instructions from the network and forwards the computer readable program instructions for storage in a computer readable storage medium within the respective computing/processing device. Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations of the one or more embodiments described herein can be assembler instructions, instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state-setting data, configuration data for integrated circuitry, and/or source code and/or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Smalltalk, C++ or the like, and/or procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language and/or similar programming languages. The computer readable program instructions can execute entirely on a computer, partly on a computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on a computer and/or partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer and/or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to a computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) and/or a wide area network (WAN), and/or the connection can be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). In one or more embodiments, electronic circuitry including, for example, programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), and/or programmable logic arrays (PLA) can execute the computer readable program instructions by utilizing state information of the computer readable program instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry, in order to perform aspects of the one or more embodiments described herein.

Aspects of the one or more embodiments described herein are described with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to one or more embodiments described herein. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer readable program instructions. These computer readable program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer and/or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, can create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. These computer readable program instructions can also be stored in a computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a programmable data processing apparatus and/or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the computer readable storage medium having instructions stored therein can comprise an article of manufacture including instructions which can implement aspects of the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. The computer readable program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus and/or other device to cause a series of operational acts to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus and/or other device to produce a computer implemented process, such that the instructions which execute on the computer, other programmable apparatus and/or other device implement the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality and/or operation of possible implementations of systems, computer-implementable methods and/or computer program products according to one or more embodiments described herein. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams can represent a module, segment and/or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In one or more alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in the Figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession can be executed substantially concurrently, and/or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and/or combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that can perform the specified functions and/or acts and/or carry out one or more combinations of special purpose hardware and/or computer instructions.

While the subject matter has been described above in the general context of computer-executable instructions of a computer program product that runs on a computer and/or computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that the one or more embodiments herein also can be implemented in combination with one or more other program modules. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures, and/or the like that perform particular tasks and/or implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, the aforedescribed computer-implemented methods can be practiced with other computer system configurations, including single-processor and/or multiprocessor computer systems, mini-computing devices, mainframe computers, as well as computers, hand-held computing devices (e.g., PDA, phone), microprocessor-based or programmable consumer and/or industrial electronics and/or the like. The illustrated aspects can also be practiced in distributed computing environments in which tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. However, one or more, if not all aspects of the one or more embodiments described herein can be practiced on stand-alone computers. In a distributed computing environment, program modules can be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

As used in this application, the terms “component,” “system,” “platform,” “interface,” and/or the like, can refer to and/or can include a computer-related entity or an entity related to an operational machine with one or more specific functionalities. The entities described herein can be either hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component can be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program and/or a computer. By way of illustration, both an application running on a server and the server can be a component. One or more components can reside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component can be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or more computers. In another example, respective components can execute from various computer readable media having various data structures stored thereon. The components can communicate via local and/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system and/or across a network such as the Internet with other systems via the signal). As another example, a component can be an apparatus with specific functionality provided by mechanical parts operated by electric or electronic circuitry, which is operated by a software and/or firmware application executed by a processor. In such a case, the processor can be internal and/or external to the apparatus and can execute at least a part of the software and/or firmware application. As yet another example, a component can be an apparatus that provides specific functionality through electronic components without mechanical parts, where the electronic components can include a processor and/or other means to execute software and/or firmware that confers at least in part the functionality of the electronic components. In an aspect, a component can emulate an electronic component via a virtual machine, e.g., within a cloud computing system.

In addition, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. Moreover, articles “a” and “an” as used in the subject specification and annexed drawings should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. As used herein, the terms “example” and/or “exemplary” are utilized to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter described herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as an “example” and/or “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

As it is employed in the subject specification, the term “processor” can refer to substantially any computing processing unit and/or device comprising, but not limited to, single-core processors; single-processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors; multi-core processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors with hardware multithread technology; parallel platforms; and/or parallel platforms with distributed shared memory. Additionally, a processor can refer to an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic controller (PLC), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, and/or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. Further, processors can exploit nano-scale architectures such as, but not limited to, molecular based transistors, switches and/or gates, in order to optimize space usage and/or to enhance performance of related equipment. A processor can be implemented as a combination of computing processing units.

Herein, terms such as “store,” “storage,” “data store,” data storage,” “database,” and substantially any other information storage component relevant to operation and functionality of a component are utilized to refer to “memory components,” entities embodied in a “memory,” or components comprising a memory. Memory and/or memory components described herein can be either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory or can include both volatile and nonvolatile memory. By way of illustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory can include read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, and/or nonvolatile random access memory (RAM) (e.g., ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM). Volatile memory can include RAM, which can act as external cache memory, for example. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can be available in many forms such as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM), direct Rambus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM) and/or Rambus dynamic RAM (RDRAM). Additionally, the described memory components of systems and/or computer-implemented methods herein are intended to include, without being limited to including, these and/or any other suitable types of memory.

What has been described above includes mere examples of systems and computer-implemented methods. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components and/or computer-implemented methods for purposes of describing the one or more embodiments, but one of ordinary skill in the art can recognize that many further combinations and/or permutations of the one or more embodiments are possible. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes”, “has”, “possesses”, and the like are used in the detailed description, claims, appendices and/or drawings such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

The descriptions of the one or more embodiments have been presented for purposes of illustration but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments described herein. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application and/or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, and/or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments described herein.1. A system, comprising: a memory that stores computer executable components; and a processor that executes the computer executable components stored in the memory, wherein the computer executable components comprise: a signaling component located on an electric vehicle and configured to detect presence of a portable device; and a charge control component configured to, upon detection of the presence of the portable device, terminate charging of the electric vehicle.2. The system of clause 1, further comprising a transceiver communicatively coupled to the signaling component, the transceiver configured to receive one or more signals transmitted from the portable device.3. The system of claim any preceding clause wherein the one or more signals received from the portable device are transmitted at ultra-wideband frequency.4. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the portable device is one of a smartphone, a smartwatch, a computer, a cellphone, or a keyfob.5. The system of any preceding clause, further comprising a location component configured to determine location of the portable device based upon the one or more signals received at the transceiver, wherein the location component compares first data included in a first signal received by the signaling component and second data included in a second signal received by the signaling component with a plurality of configurations respectively configured to terminate charging of the electric vehicle, maintain charging of the electric vehicle, or initiate charging of the electric vehicle.6. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the first data and second data comprise at least one of position data or motion data.7. The system of any preceding clause, the location component further configured, in event of the first data and second data is comparable to a configuration to terminate charging of the electric vehicle, to transmit a signal to the charge control component to terminate charging of the electric vehicle.8. The system of any preceding clause, the location component further configured, in event of the first data and second data is not comparable to a configuration to terminate charging of the electric vehicle, to transmit a signal to the charge control component to maintain charging of the electric vehicle.9. A computer-implemented method for controlling charging of an electric vehicle comprising: detecting at least one of movement or location of a portable device proximate to the electric vehicle; and terminating charging of a battery located on the electric vehicle based upon on the movement or location of the portable device.10. The computer-implemented method of clause 9, further comprising: receiving a first signal and a second signal from the portable device; and establishing a pattern of movement or location of the portable device by comparing first data in the first signal with second data in the second signal.11. The computer-implemented method of any preceding clause, further comprising: determining charging of the electric vehicle is to be terminated based upon the pattern of movement or location of the portable device.12. The computer-implemented method of any preceding clause, wherein the determining the pattern of movement or location further comprises comparing the pattern with a plurality of pre-configured patterns.13. The computer-implemented method of any preceding clause, further comprising adjusting at least one pattern in the plurality of pre-configured patterns based upon local operating conditions.14. The computer-implemented method of any preceding clause, wherein the first signal and second signal are transmitted at ultra-wideband frequency.15. The computer-implemented method of any preceding clause, wherein the portable device is a keyfob, a smartphone, a smartwatch, a cellphone, or a computer, configured to transmit signals using ultra-wideband frequency.16. A computer program product comprising a computer readable storage medium having program instructions embodied therewith, the program instructions executable by a processor to cause the processor to: terminate charging of an electric vehicle based upon on the movement or location of a portable device relative to a location of the electric vehicle.17. The computer program product of clause 16, wherein the program instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the processor to: determine the movement or location of the portable device based upon a plurality of signals received from the portable device.18. The computer program product of any preceding clause, wherein the program instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the processor to: determining, based upon the movement or location of the portable device, charging of the electric vehicle is to be maintained.19. The computer program product of any preceding clause, wherein the plurality of signals received from the portable device are ultra-wideband frequency.20. The computer program product of any preceding clause, wherein the portable device is one of a smartphone, a smartwatch, a computer, a cellphone, a personal digital assistant, a tablet computer, or a keyfob.