FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of electric vehicle (EV) charging and servicing units.

[0002] In one form, the invention relates to an electric vehicle charging and servicing unit which can be adapted for a number of other functions that are preferably, but not exclusively associated with the EV.

[0003] In another form the invention relates to a system and modules associated with an EV charging and servicing unit.

[0004] It will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention in relation to motorists and their electric cars however it should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to that use only and can be applied to a wide range of electric vehicles including trucks, vans, step-through frame scooters including mopeds and other commercial or personal vehicles and their operators and electric bicycles and footboard scooters and their riders.

BACKGROUND ART

[0005] It is to be appreciated that any discussion of documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the present invention. Further, the discussion throughout this specification comes about due to the realisation of the inventor and/or the identification of certain related art problems by the inventor. Moreover, any discussion of material such as, documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the invention in terms of the inventor’s knowledge and experience and, accordingly, any such discussion should not be taken as an admission that any of the material forms part of the prior art base or the common general knowledge in the relevant art in Australia, or elsewhere, on or before the priority date of the disclosure and claims herein.

[0006] Electric vehicle (EV) charging units and stations supply electric energy to recharge plug-in electric vehicles. They provide fast, high voltage, high current charging matched with appropriate electrical conversion, monitoring and safety functions. Many users prefer the speed and safety systems of charging units and stations to the alternative option of charging a vehicle from a domestic wall socket.

[0007] Most charging units and stations provide AC charging as it is able to connect directly to the EV onboard charging circuitry. A few charging units and stations are designed for DC charging, and they take grid power, pass it through an AC/DC inverter then directly to the EV battery, which bypasses the onboard charging circuits.

[0008] Charging units and stations are becoming increasingly common as stand-alone fixtures in parking lots, conventional fossil fuel service stations, shopping centres and other places that attract large numbers of EV users. The option to charge while parked is usually subject to a fee charged by the owners of the parking lot. However, some retailers offer free parking and recharge as an incentive to attract customers to their nearby shops or premises.

[0009] Public AC charging units and stations typically provide anywhere from 7kW to 22kW of charge but many people prefer the faster public DC charging units and stations. These DC fast charging units and stations typically range from 25kW to 150kW, the latter of which can increase battery charge from zero to 80 per cent in just under an hour. A 350kW ultra-rapid DC charger can increase battery charge from zero to 100 per cent charge in as little as 20 minutes.

[0010] In general, DC chargers operating at 25 kW provide a recharge range of about 100 to 150 kms per hour of charging. A larger, 50 kW charger could deliver a recharge range of about 200 to 300 kms per hour of charging.

[0011] In order to take long trips, or to access areas removed from populated areas, an increasing number of charging units and stations are being located at locations convenient for recharging such as, rest stops on major highways, apartment complexes and other short- stay accommodation. An isolated charging unit or station located at for example a major highway, could potentially be used dozens of times each day and this type of infrastructure will need to be developed to keep pace with increases in manufacture and adoption of EVs.

[0012] CN 208393156 to CHENGDU UNIVERSITY OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY teaches an electric automobile charging station, depicted as an upright unit similar in shape to a conventional fuel dispenser, which includes a water pump (12), in the form of a rotating valve, amongst other items. [0013] EP2549618 to SALAMANQUES CLAVER teaches a system for charging vehicles, electrical apparatus and devices and for power supply made up of a cabin, which is depicted as having a form-factor shaped like a box, and is physically attached to a street light post. Paragraph [0024] notes that the lighting column, the cabin and the vending machine can be made up of three separate physical structures. An electrical connection and communication connections are used to provide a payment means. The inclusion of a compressor for inflating tyres or other objects is taught in paragraph [0046].

[0014] DE 102019105825 teaches an electric vehicle charging station which includes a compressed air device for adjusting tyre pressure and a vacuum cleaner (paragraph [0015]). The charging station has both a charging module, which comprises at least one charging cable which is connected to an electrical energy source and has a connection plug for connection to an electric vehicle to be charged, and at least one additional functional module. These additional functional modules are electrically operated service units, which can be used to be charged on the charging module of the charging station (paragraphs [0010] and [0012]). The modules may have individual housings or be combined in one housing (paragraphs [0018] and [0019]).

[0015] DE 202017005029 relates to a charging station that includes both a vacuum and a tyre pressure recharging device and optionally polishing devices (paragraphs [0007] and [0008]). The charging station and other elements can be combined in a common housing.

[0016] CN 211995202 to SHEN HU AY AN teaches a multifunctional vehicle recharging device, in the form of an upright unit similar in shape to that of CN 208393156, that includes a pump and for cleaning the automobile a dust collector and a dust suction nozzle.

[0017] CN 210310000 to WUXI TONGRUI POWER AUTOMATION EQUIPMENT LTD 14 April 2020 teaches a recharging machine, similar in shape to the above device, that includes a suction pump (14) and an air pump (15).

[0018] US 2017/0193716 A1 BOSCH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE SOLUTIONS INC. teaches a vehicle recharging station, in the form of an upright post, that can carry out diagnostic functions and includes a gas pump. The diagnostic functions include tread depth measurement, battery testing, measuring tire pressure, performing safety inspection, emissions testing and performing vehicle diagnostics. [0019] CN 212473149 to HUBEI XINYUAN ZHONGNENG ELECTRIC CO LTD teaches an electric charging station, with a form factor similar to a conventional fuel pump, that includes a water pump (8).

[0020] DE 202018101290 U1 to ORAWETZ LILO REBECCA teaches a charging station (10), in the form of a singular upright rectangular unit, for electric vehicles which features a compressed air device for inflating tyres.

[0021] DE 202010014316 U1 to ROHDE & SCHWARZ discloses a charging station (1), also in the form of a singular upright rectangular unit, for electrical vehicles which features both AC and DC charging.

[0022] US 2017/0015209 A1 to FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES is directed to an electric vehicle charging system, having a form factor similar to a conventional shopping centre information kiosk, which also houses a bike share storage unit.

[0023] US 20120330494 to HENDRIX et al. provides an electric vehicle (EV) charging system, that has a unitary form factor, for charging and managing a plurality of electric vehicles. On-board diagnostics are collected from at least one vehicle. Also, management software is configured to monitor and control charging of two or more EVs.

[0024] US 2015/0123619 to AT&T INTELLECTUAL I, L.P. teaches an EV charging station, depicted as having a block- shaped form factor, in which charging requires an initial authentication.

[0025] CN 110014939 to CHEN ZHUYONG is directed to an EV charging station which carries out charging automatically. The charging station is depicted as having a block shaped form factor.

[0026] CN 212195128 to GAN JIANWEN teaches an EV charging station that features cooling fans and provides water for cleaning the EV. The form factor is similar to an upright cabinet.

[0027] Accordingly, there is a need for charging stations to be able to provide users with other useful goods and services, particularly at remote locations. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0028] In its broadest form the present invention provides a system and device for charging and basic servicing of an electric vehicle. The system and device may comprise a source of electricity adapted to charge one or more EV and a fluid pump and/or compressor adapted to provide compressed fluid and/or apply a vacuum.

[0029] In a first aspect of embodiments described herein there is provided a charging and servicing device for an electric vehicle (EV) comprising:

(I) a powered base unit designed and configured to removably receive one or more modules, the powered base unit comprising a source of electricity adapted to charge one or more EV ; and

(II) a compressed air module comprising a fluid pump and/or compressor adapted to provide compressed fluid and/or apply a vacuum, and optionally, one or more other service modules, each service module of the one or more service modules comprising a respective one or more other source of amenities adapted to provide one or more goods or services. Preferably, but not exclusively, the sources of amenities are associated with an electric vehicle.

[0030] The fluid pump and/or compressor may act as a source of reduced pressurised air for vacuum cleaning and/or a source of high-pressure fluid (gas, vapour or liquid) for more forceful cleaning. Thus, all parts of a vehicle could be cleaned, including the cabin interior, exterior panels, wheels, windows, lenses, engine bay and underside. Advantageously, the fluid pump may also provide air at high pressure to inflate tyres.

[0031] The user may additionally choose a combination of one or more other service modules to provide various amenities, providing goods and services. The one or more other service modules may comprise one or more of:

[0032] (a) a non-pressurised fluid module providing one or more source of non- pressurised fluid, for refilling a reservoir associated with a windshield washer, cooling system, hydraulic system or other EV system;

[0033] (b) a measurement module providing one or more source of measurement, for measuring one or more parameter associated with a system of an EV such as tyre pressure, or thermal system temperature, or battery charge level; [0034] (c) an accoutrement module providing one or more source of accoutrements for the EV or for its servicing, such as one or more of: a cleaning cloth; paper towels; one or more squeegee; one or more cleaning compound, optionally in a spray bottle; one or more EV charging cable with connectors for (I) the source of electricity and the EV ; one or more polishing compound; and one or more wiper blades;

[0035] (d) an automobile communication module providing a source of electronic communication for transmitting or receiving information relevant to the EV, such as vehicle condition information and diagnostics from the vehicle transponder, servicing reminders from the manufacturer, software updates for onboard computer systems;

[0036] (e) a transaction module providing a source of electronic transaction for transmitting or receiving electronic signals relating to access or payments relating to the EV, such as payment for services provided by the amenities, or payment of repairs, insurance or servicing of the EV ;

[0037] (f) a security module providing a source of security surveillance for maintaining electronic or video tracking of the EV and/or surveillance of the system;

[0038] (g) a transportation module providing a source of a transportation device such as an electric scooter or bicycle for hire;

[0039] (h) a vacuum source module providing one or more fan or pump to provide a vacuum source; and

[0040] (i) a user interface (UI) module providing a computerised interface for electronic communication such as a touch screen, touch-pad or display screen.

[0041] The electronic based modules such as, the automobile communication module and transaction module may be provided by one or more computing devices having a processor and a memory storage device. The computing device may be further programmed to initiate and control the electric charging of the EV.

[0042] In another embodiment, the UI module may communicably link an automatic teller machine (ATM) or other financial transaction device may be to a computing device for initiating and controlling the electric charging of the EV.

[0043] In a second aspect of embodiments described herein there is provided a charging and servicing device for an electric vehicle (EV) comprising: (I) a powered base unit designed and configured to removably receive one or more modules, the powered base unit comprising a charging socket adapted to provide electricity to charge one or more EV ; and

(II) a compressed air module comprising a fluid pump and/or compressor adapted to provide compressed fluid and/or to apply a vacuum, and optionally, one or more other service module. The one or more other service module is/are preferably, but not exclusively adapted to provide one or more services to an electric vehicle.

[0044] The one or more service module may for example provide the above listed sources of amenities and may comprise one or more of:

[0045] (a) a non-pressurised fluid module providing one or more non-pressurised fluid source, for refilling a reservoir associated with a windshield washer, cooling system, hydraulic system or other EV system;

[0046] (b) a measurement module comprising one or more measurement device, such as an electronic pressure gauge; a thermometer for measuring EV parameters and/or a meter to check battery charge level;

[0047] (c) an accoutrement module comprising an accoutrement vending machine for providing one or more accoutrement for cleaning or servicing, such as one or more of: a cleaning cloth; paper towels; one or more squeegee; one or more cleaning compound, optionally in a spray bottle; one or more EV charging cable with connectors for (I) the charging socket and the EV; and one or more polishing compound;

[0048] (d) an automobile communication module for transmitting and/or receiving information relevant to the EV, such as, vehicle condition information and diagnostics from the vehicle transponder, servicing reminders from the manufacturer, software updates for onboard computer systems;

[0049] (e) a transaction module providing an electronic funds transfer (EFT) or point of sale (POS) component for transmitting and/or receiving electronic signals relating to access or payments relating to the EV, such as payment for services provided by the amenities, or payment of repairs, insurance or servicing of the EV; [0050] (f) a security module comprising one or more camera or sensor for security surveillance for maintaining electronic or video tracking of the EV and/or surveillance of the device;

[0051] (g) a transportation module comprising a docking station for an electronic transportation device such as, an electric scooter or bicycle for hire and optionally the electronic transportation device;

[0052] (h) a vacuum source module providing one or more fan or pump to provide a vacuum source; and

[0053] (i) a user interface module comprising a computerised interface for electronic communication such as a touch screen, touch-pad or display screen. The source of electronic transaction or EFT or POS component (e) may comprise an electronic card reader or NFC reader.

[0054] The system and device of the present invention may further provide one or more amenities or devices modules that provide useful goods or services for purposes not related to the EV such as an amenities vending machine module to provide drinks and snacks, an amenities charging module to provide electricity for charging mobile devices, a hire device module comprising advertising material and devices for hire such as docked electric scooters or electric bicycles.

[0055] Advantageously, the user could, for example choose from a range of mobile phone chargers and a range of wiper blades to satisfy immediate, practical needs.

[0056] In a third aspect of embodiments described herein there is provided a base unit adapted to removably receive one or more service modules, the base unit comprising:

(I) a body comprising a charging socket adapted to provide electricity to charge an EV;

(II) a compressed air module disposed on the base unit, the compressed air module comprising a fluid pump to provide compressed fluid and/or apply a vacuum; wherein at least the base unit and second module are in electrical communication with a single electrical service feed line of the base unit.

[0057] The base unit according to the third aspect may be further adapted to removably receive one or more of the following service modules: [0058] (a) one or more non-pressurised fluid source module, for refilling a reservoir associated with a windshield washer, cooling system, hydraulic system or other EV system;

[0059] (b) one or more measurement module comprising one or more measurement device, such as an electronic pressure gauge; a thermometer for measuring EV parameters and/or a meter to check battery charge level;

[0060] (c) an accoutrement machine module for providing one or more accoutrement for cleaning or servicing, such as one or more of: cleaning cloth; paper towels; one or more squeegee; one or more cleaning compound, optionally in a spray bottle; one or more EV charging cable with connectors for (I) the first module and the EV; one or more polishing compound; or one or more wiper blade;

[0061] (d) an automobile communication module for transmitting and/or receiving information relevant to the EV, such as, vehicle condition information and diagnostics from the vehicle transponder, servicing reminders from the manufacturer, software updates for onboard computer systems;

[0062] (e) a transaction module comprising an electronic funds transfer (EFT) or point of sale (POS) capability for transmitting and/or receiving electronic signals relating to access or payments relating to the EV, such as payment for services provided by the amenities, or payment of repairs, insurance or servicing of the EV;

[0063] (f) a security module comprising one or more camera or sensor for security surveillance for maintaining electronic or video tracking of the EV and/or surveillance of the device;

[0064] (g) a transportation module comprising a docking station for an electronic transportation device such as, an electric scooter or bicycle for hire and optionally the electronic transportation device;

[0065] (h) a vacuum source module comprising one or more fan or pump module to provide a vacuum source; and

[0066] (i) a user interface (UI) module comprising a computerised interface module for electronic communication such as a touch screen, touch-pad or display screen.

[0067] In particular embodiments, the first, second and third aspects may comprise:

(I); (II); (a); and (b); (I); (II); (a); (b); and (g);

(I); (II); (a); (b); (g) and (f);

(I); (II); (a); (b) being a pressure gauge; (c) (e); (h); (f); (i);

(I); (II); (b) being a pressure gauge; (c); (h); (i); or (I); (II); (b) being a pressure gauge; and (h).

[0068] Thus a user may choose any combination of amenities, including goods and/or services according to their needs.

[0069] According to any one of the above aspects, the pressurised fluid and/or non- pressurised fluid may comprise water or may alternatively comprise a mixture of water and one or more cleaning compounds such as, a detergent or detergent compositions. The non- pressurised fluid may be supplied to the fluid pump and/or compressor to thereby provide pressurised fluid such as, liquid for external cleaning; steam for internal cleaning; and air for tyre inflation. The pressurised fluid may be expelled from a pressure cleaner or power cleaner. The pressure cleaner or power cleaner may be comprised in an additional amenity (j); service (j); or service module (j).

[0070] In one embodiment of any one of the above aspects, one or more of (I); (II); (a); (b); (c); (d); (e); (f); (g); (h); and (i) may be housed in a cabinet. The cabinet may comprise one or more door such as, a sliding door. The sliding door may be bidirectional. The cabinet may further comprise one or more adjustable shelf.

[0071] According to any one of the above aspects, (h) may be in the form of a detachable handheld vacuum and/or a detachable handheld tyre pump.

[0072] According to any one of the above aspects, when one or more EV charging cable is supplied in (c), one EV charging cable may be supplied with multiple connectors for various EV connection types or multiple EV charging cables may be supplied each with a different EV connection type. The multiple connectors may be integral with the EV charging cable or each connector may be interchangeable onto the EV charging cable.

[0073] According to any one of the above aspects the automobile communication module may comprise one or more transceiver.

[0074] According to any one of the above aspects, the each of the: (a) non-pressurised fluid module; (b) measurement module; (c) accoutrement module; and (h) vacuum source module are rechargeable. The rechargeable nature of the (a) non-pressurised fluid module; (b) measurement module; (c) accoutrement module; and (h) vacuum source module means they are not in permanent connection with a mains fluid or electricity supply or in permanent connection with a fluid or electricity supply of the base unit. In this embodiment, one or more of (a); (b); (c); and (h) may comprise a fluid reservoir or a rechargeable battery. The

(a) non-pressurised fluid module may comprise one or more refillable fluid reservoir. The

(b) measurement module may comprise one or more rechargeable battery. The (c) accoutrement module may comprise one or more one or more refillable fluid reservoir and/or one or more rechargeable battery. The (h) vacuum source module may comprise one or more rechargeable battery.

[0075] According to any one of the above aspects, the base unit supplies AC and/or DC power to charge the one or more EV. In one particular embodiment both AC and/or DC may be supplied, optionally simultaneously for charging difference vehicles.

[0076] According to any one of the above aspects, the powered base unit is designed and configured with a plurality of fasteners. Each fastener of the plurality of fasteners may receive a respective service module of the one or more other service modules. Each of the one or more other service modules may comprise a complementary fastener for releasable attachment to the base unit. The releasable attachment may be a secure releasable attachment.

[0077] Advantages provided by the present invention comprise the following:

• convenient supply of goods and services, often at remote locations,

• provision of options to a vehicle user may otherwise be unoccupied,

• efficient use of opportunity and location,

• facilitating expansion of infrastructure,

• a user can choose any combination of amenities, including various goods and/or services that they need.

[0078] Further scope of applicability of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosure herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0079] Further disclosure, objects, advantages and aspects of preferred and other embodiments of the present application may be better understood by those skilled in the relevant art by reference to the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the disclosure herein, and in which:

[0080] FIG 1 is a drawing illustrating one embodiment of a charging station of the present invention;

[0081] FIG 2 is a drawing illustrating a second embodiment of a charging station of the present invention; and

[0082] FIG 3 is a drawing illustrating a third embodiment of a charging station of the present invention.

[0083] FIG 4 is a drawing illustrating a fourth embodiment of a charging station of the present invention.

[0084] FIG 5 is a drawing illustrating a fifth embodiment of a charging station of the present invention.

[0085] FIG 6 is a drawing illustrating a sixth embodiment of a charging station of the present invention.

[0086] FIGS 7A and 7B are drawings illustrating a seventh embodiment of a charging station of the present invention.

[0087] Table of Parts

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “interior,” “exterior,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 2. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, it is to be understood that discussion of a particular feature of component extending in or along a given direction or the like does not mean that the feature or component follows a straight line or axis in such a direction or that it only extends in such direction or on such a plane without other directional components or deviations, unless otherwise specified.

[0089] FIG 1 depicts the charging and servicing device of the present invention in its most basic form comprising a powered base unit (3) that is designed and configured to removably receive, on a base unit body 30, one or more modules. The modules may, for example, comprise a holder for various amenities. In this view can be seen an EV charger (1) and associated charging cable (2) that ends in a socket for connection to an EV during a recharging cycle. The charging cable (2) will not necessarily be fixed to the powered base unit (3) and may be removable so that a driver of an EV can use their own charging cable. In some embodiments of the present invention, a range of charging cables, adaptors and other charging-related items may be available to the EV driver, for example from a vending machine component (c).

[0090] FIG 2 is substantially the same as FIG 1 in so far as it includes an EV charger (1) and associated charging cable (2) on the body (20) of a powered base unit (3). In this embodiment the base unit (3) further supports an accoutrement module (4) comprising a spray bottle (4’) and paper towel (4”), a compressed air module (5) comprising an air compressor (5’) including an air hose (5”) for inflating a tyre, and an accoutrement module (6) comprising a wash bucket and (6’) squeegee (6”).

[0091] FIG 3 is the same as the embodiment in FIG 2, with the addition of a transportation module (7) for an electric scooter (7’).

[0092] FIGS 4; 5; and 6 show alternative embodiments in which charging cable (2) is removable and further comprising a user interface module (8) comprising a display screen (8’), which is advantageously in the form of a touch-screen. The provision of the screen (8’) as part of user interface module (8) provides an effective interface with the user. These embodiments of FIGS. 4; 5; and 6 also comprise a cabinet (20) for securely storing (I); (II) and the amenities; components; or modules (a); (b); (c); (d); (e); (f); (g); (h) and (i). The interior of cabinet (20) is accessed by opening bidirectional sliding door (22) which reveals the interior amenities; components; or modules stored on one or more adjustable shelf (24). The embodiments shown in FIGS 4; 5; and 6 feature a transportation module (7) comprising an electric scooter (7’).

[0093] The embodiment shown in FIG 5 comprises a vacuum source module (9) providing rechargeable battery pump (9’; not shown) for inflating tyres; an accoutrement module (4) comprising a spray bucket (4’) and paper towels (4”) and another accoutrement module (6) comprising a bucket (6’) and squeegee (6”)·

[0094] The embodiment shown in FIG 6 comprises a vacuum source module (10) this time comprising handheld vacuum cleaner (10’) stowed in a charging dock for convenient vacuuming of a vehicle interior and a hose (12) for pressurised cleaning. The compressor for pressurising the fluid output from hose (12) is hidden in the base unit (3) or is provided with compressed air module (5).

[0095] FIG 7A and FIG 7B show another embodiment in which the compressor 5’ of the compressed air module 5 is rechargeable, allowing convenient pumping of tyres. FIG. 7A shows this embodiment with both the door 22 and the charger access panel 26 open. With both doors 22, 26 open, as shown in FIG 7B, the charger access bay 28 is accessible and the contents of cabinet 20 can be readily accessed.

[0096] In a first model of a preferred embodiment of the present invention the charging station includes; an EV charger, an air compressor,

- pressure gauge, a vacuum pump, a pump for pressurising water, a receptacle or tap for non-pressurised fluid, a video surveillance device, an electronic “smart” access interface, a vending machine, an Eft payment interface.

[0097] In a second model of a preferred embodiment of the present invention the charging station includes; an EV charger, an air compressor a pressure gauge, a vacuum pump, an electronic “smart’ access interface, a vending machine

[0098] In a third model of a preferred embodiment of the present invention the charging station includes; an EV charger an air compressor a pressure gauge, and a vacuum pump.

[0099] With respect to the second model and the third model, these do not require an EFT payment interface because the user prepays online. Having pre-paid the user may use a code, electronic card or other means to identify themselves to the charging station.

[0100] From the description herein, the skilled person will readily understand that the: (a) non-pressurised fluid module; (b) measurement module; (c) accoutrement module; and (h) vacuum source module may be rechargeable. The rechargeable nature of the (a) non- pressurised fluid module; (b) measurement module; (c) accoutrement module; and (h) vacuum source module means they are not in permanent connection with a mains fluid or electricity supply or in permanent connection with a fluid or electricity supply of the base unit. As such, these rechargeable modules are not “plumbed in” or permanently connected to the fluid or power supply and must therefor comprise a fluid reservoir or a rechargeable battery.

[0101] According to any one of the above aspects, the base unit supplies AC and/or DC power to charge the one or more EV.

[0102] While this invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that it is capable of further modification(s). This application is intended to cover any variations uses or adaptations of the invention following in general, the principles of the invention and including such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains and as may be applied to the essential features hereinbefore set forth.

[0103] As the present invention may be embodied in several forms without departing from the spirit of the essential characteristics of the invention, it should be understood that the above described embodiments are not to limit the present invention unless otherwise specified, but rather should be construed broadly within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative only and not restrictive.

[0104] Various modifications and equivalent arrangements are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the invention and appended claims. Therefore, the specific embodiments are to be understood to be illustrative of the many ways in which the principles of the present invention may be practiced. In the following claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover structures as performing the defined function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. For example, although a nail and a screw may not be structural equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface to secure wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface to secure wooden parts together, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail and a screw are equivalent structures.

[0105] It should be noted that where the terms “server”, “secure server” or similar terms are used herein, a communication device is described that may be used in a communication system, unless the context otherwise requires, and should not be construed to limit the present invention to any particular communication device type. Thus, a communication device may include, without limitation, a bridge, router, bridge-router (router), switch, node, or other communication device, which may or may not be secure.

[0106] It should also be noted that where a flowchart is used herein to demonstrate various aspects of the invention, it should not be construed to limit the present invention to any particular logic flow or logic implementation. The described logic may be partitioned into different logic blocks (e.g., programs, modules, functions, or subroutines) without changing the overall results or otherwise departing from the true scope of the invention. Often, logic elements may be added, modified, omitted, performed in a different order, or implemented using different logic constructs (e.g., logic gates, looping primitives, conditional logic, and other logic constructs) without changing the overall results or otherwise departing from the true scope of the invention.

[0107] Various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in many different forms, including computer program logic for use with a processor (e.g., a microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor, or general purpose computer and for that matter, any commercial processor may be used to implement the embodiments of the invention either as a single processor, serial or parallel set of processors in the system and, as such, examples of commercial processors include, but are not limited to Merced™, Pentium™, Pentium II™, Xeon™, Celeron™, Pentium Pro™, Efficeon™, Athlon™, AMD™ and the like), programmable logic for use with a programmable logic device (e.g., a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or other PFD), discrete components, integrated circuitry (e.g., an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)), or any other means including any combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, predominantly all of the communication between users and the server is implemented as a set of computer program instructions that is converted into a computer executable form, stored as such in a computer readable medium, and executed by a microprocessor under the control of an operating system.

[0108] Computer program logic implementing all or part of the functionality where described herein may be embodied in various forms, including a source code form, a computer executable form, and various intermediate forms (e.g., forms generated by an assembler, compiler, linker, or locator). Source code may include a series of computer program instructions implemented in any of various programming languages (e.g., an object code, an assembly language, or a high-level language such as Fortran, C, C++, JAVA, or HTML. Moreover, there are hundreds of available computer languages that may be used to implement embodiments of the invention, among the more common being Ada; Algol; APL; awk; Basic; C; C++; Conol; Delphi; Eiffel; Euphoria; Forth; Fortran; HTML; Icon; Java; Javascript; Lisp; Logo; Mathematica; MatLab; Miranda; Modula-2; Oberon; Pascal; Perl; PL/I; Prolog; Python; Rexx; SAS; Scheme; sed; Simula; Smalltalk; Snobol; SQL; Visual Basic; Visual C++; Linux and XML.) for use with various operating systems or operating environments. The source code may define and use various data structures and communication messages. The source code may be in a computer executable form (e.g., via an interpreter), or the source code may be converted (e.g., via a translator, assembler, or compiler) into a computer executable form.

[0109] The computer program may be fixed in any form (e.g., source code form, computer executable form, or an intermediate form) either permanently or transitorily in a tangible storage medium, such as a semiconductor memory device (e.g., a RAM, ROM, PROM, EEPROM, or Flash-Programmable RAM), a magnetic memory device (e.g., a diskette or fixed disk), an optical memory device (e.g., a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM), a PC card (e.g., PCMCIA card), or other memory device. The computer program may be fixed in any form in a signal that is transmittable to a computer using any of various communication technologies, including, but in no way limited to, analog technologies, digital technologies, optical technologies, wireless technologies (e.g., Bluetooth), networking technologies, and inter-networking technologies. The computer program may be distributed in any form as a removable storage medium with accompanying printed or electronic documentation (e.g., shrink wrapped software), preloaded with a computer system (e.g., on system ROM or fixed disk), or distributed from a server or electronic bulletin board over the communication system (e.g., the Internet or World Wide Web).

[0110] Hardware logic (including programmable logic for use with a programmable logic device) implementing all or part of the functionality where described herein may be designed using traditional manual methods, or may be designed, captured, simulated, or documented electronically using various tools, such as Computer Aided Design (CAD), a hardware description language (e.g., VHDL or AHDL), or a PLD programming language (e.g., PALASM, ABEL, or CUPL). Hardware logic may also be incorporated into display screens for implementing embodiments of the invention and which may be segmented display screens, analogue display screens, digital display screens, CRTs, LED screens, Plasma screens, liquid crystal diode screen, and the like.

[0111] Programmable logic may be fixed either permanently or transitorily in a tangible storage medium, such as a semiconductor memory device (e.g., a RAM, ROM, PROM, EEPROM, or Plash-Programmable RAM), a magnetic memory device (e.g., a diskette or fixed disk), an optical memory device (e.g., a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM), or other memory device. The programmable logic may be fixed in a signal that is transmittable to a computer using any of various communication technologies, including, but in no way limited to, analog technologies, digital technologies, optical technologies, wireless technologies (e.g., Bluetooth), networking technologies, and internetworking technologies. The programmable logic may be distributed as a removable storage medium with accompanying printed or electronic documentation (e.g., shrink wrapped software), preloaded with a computer system (e.g., on system ROM or fixed disk), or distributed from a server or electronic bulletin board over the communication system (e.g., the Internet or World Wide Web).

[0112] When a Markush group or other grouping is used herein, all individual members of the group and all combinations and sub-combinations possible of the group members are intended to be individually included in the disclosure. Every combination of components described or exemplified herein can be used to practice the invention, unless otherwise stated.

[0113] Whenever a range is given in the specification, for example, a temperature range, a time range, or a composition or concentration range, all intermediate ranges and subranges, as well as all individual values included in the ranges given are intended to be included in the disclosure. It will be understood that any subranges or individual values in a range or subrange that are included in the description herein can be excluded from the claims herein.

[0114] As used herein, "comprising" is synonymous with "including," "containing," or "characterized by," and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. As used herein, "consisting of excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim element. As used herein, "consisting essentially of does not exclude materials or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claim. The broad term "comprising" is intended to encompass the narrower "consisting essentially of and the even narrower "consisting of." Thus, in any recitation herein of a phrase "comprising one or more claim element" (e.g., "comprising A), the phrase is intended to encompass the narrower, for example, "consisting essentially of A" and "consisting of A" Thus, the broader word "comprising" is intended to provide specific support in each use herein for either "consisting essentially of or "consisting of." The invention illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element or elements, limitation or limitations which is not specifically disclosed herein.

[0115] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that materials and methods, other than those specifically exemplified can be employed in the practice of the invention without resort to undue experimentation. All art-known functional equivalents, of any such materials and methods are intended to be included in this invention. The terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention that in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although the present invention has been specifically disclosed by examples, preferred embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and that such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of this invention as defined by the appended claims.