ELECTRIC VEHICLE BOOSTER

The present invention relates generally to electric vehicles and particularly, although not exclusively to mobility vehicles such as mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs and/or other suitable electric vehicles such as electric bikes.

Mobility vehicles such as mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs are well-known and designed for people with restricted mobility, typically those who are elderly or disabled.

Mobility vehicles are usually lead-acid (LA) battery powered. A battery or two is stored on board the vehicle and is charged by connecting to the mains via an onboard or separate battery charger unit using standard AC electric power.

Throughout a vehicle’s life it can suffer from many disadvantages and problems relating to the batteries. Here is a list of some common disadvantages and problems:

Limited travel distance and usage time.

Limited available power.

Underpowered and can struggle on hills and with the heavier user.

LA batteries gradually lose their capacity during use, leading to gradual deterioration in overall performance and frequent breakdowns.

LA batteries also gradually lose their capacity over time, leading to gradual deterioration in performance.

LA batteries need to be replaced regularly, perhaps every year or two.

Batteries need to be charged very regularly, after each use, deteriorate very quickly if not regularly charged.

Batteries cannot be left in partially-discharged state otherwise they quickly deteriorate, possibly causing irreversible damage.

If voltage has dropped too low, it may be impossible to recover charge, resulting in the batteries having to be replaced.

Battery pack is heavy, bulky and cumbersome and can cause injury.

Battery pack is invariably removed from vehicle for charging which is inconvenient and time- consuming.

Batteries are expensive to replace.

Lead-acid batteries are a tremendous burden on the environment, not only due to the manufacturing process, but also due to the amount of lead used in their manufacture, their eventual wastage and sometimes irresponsible disposal at the end of their life.

Much of the time the user just accepts the limitations of the mobility vehicle and continues using it even with all these disadvantages.

Options for overcoming at least some of these problems include: Fitting larger batteries is almost always impossible due to the space constraints of the battery packs or of the mobility scooter. Batteries of a very slightly higher capacity may in a few cases possibly be fitted but the extra cost, inconvenience etc for very little extra distance, and without an increase in power, makes it hardly worthwhile. And the above disadvantages still remain.

Carrying a second battery pack on the mobility scooter: the idea is that when the first one runs out, the user swaps for the second. This is not recommended, is unsatisfactory, inconvenient and can be dangerous. It may give the user greater distance but no more power during use and they gradually deteriorate anyway. Then they have two battery packs to charge.

Linking two LA battery packs together in parallel is possible, but they would need to be connected at their battery terminals so the packs would need to be taken apart then the batteries connected at their terminals. Even if it is deduced that the battery packs could be connected using either or both of the battery packs' charger sockets, doing so will cause electrical damage and/or blow the fuses etc in either or both the battery packs as the output voltage and current would not be regulated to prevent this damage. This is dangerous as well as inconvenient and impractical. Even then, both heavy bulky battery packs need to be transported and carried on the mobility scooter. This could in theory increase distance but the inherent disadvantages and problems described above still remain, but this time there are two battery packs to carry, charge, etc.

However, these adaptations, if even partly or remotely successful, tend to be unsatisfactory, inconvenient, time-consuming, pointless or dangerous.

The present invention aims to address and solve at least the above disadvantages and problems, and provide many more advantages.

An aspect of the present invention provides an auxiliary power unit for an electric vehicle, the unit comprising a power source and power connection means for delivering power from the source to a vehicle.

The power may be delivered to a vehicle’s on-board battery or batteries.

It is possible that the unit can be or become a replacement for a vehicle’s present on-board batteries if they are exhausted or beyond any practical use.

In some embodiments the unit can power the vehicle by using the vehicle’s circuitry and batteries to transmit power from the unit to (eventually) the motor.

The unit may comprise power regulation means for controlling delivery of power from the source to a vehicle. The power regulation means may be designed and programmed such that the power unit optimally charges the vehicle’s present on-board batteries and at optimum levels and maintains optimum charge. In some embodiments, due to the design and customised programming of the power regulating means, the delivery of power may be regulated in order to compensate for any deficit that the vehicle’s present on-board batteries may have at any time so that optimal performance is maintained at all times.

A further aspect of the present invention provides an auxiliary power unit for an electric vehicle, the unit comprising a power source, power connection means and power regulation means for controlling delivery of power from the source to a vehicle.

The power regulation means may regulate voltage and current.

The unit may comprise converter/output voltage and current regulating means.

The unit may be adapted to be connected anywhere on the vehicle (such as a mobility vehicle), for example to an electric vehicle charging socket.

The power connection means may be configured so that it does not inhibit vehicle drive.

A further aspect provides an auxiliary power pack that is attachable into the present charging socket of a mobility vehicle to provide extra power and usage time but with the ability to prevent the power and drive inhibit function of the mobility vehicle from triggering and which also causes no damage to the mobility vehicle's components.

A further aspect provides a mobility vehicle booster power pack, the pack comprising a power source and means for connection to an unmodified vehicle charging socket, in which the means for connection does not inhibit vehicle drive whereby vehicle usage can continue with the pack connected.

The unit or pack may be designed and constructed in such a way that it regulates voltage and current at optimum levels, without blowing the mobility vehicle’s fuse or damaging wiring, electrics, or electronics.

The power source may comprise one or more batteries, for example Lithium-ion batteries or Lithium polymer batteries.

The unit/pack may further comprise a battery management system (BMS) which could, for example, monitor/control charging and/or discharging.

The BMS may, for example, controls the charging of the Li-ion and is pretty much common to all Lithium battery packs as their charging and discharging needs to be monitored.

The power regulation means may regulate one or more of: voltage, current, charging, input, output. A separate regulator may be a stand-alone component and may ensure that the correct voltage is regulated, that the output current is limited etc.

A further aspect provides a plug and play, universal portable recharging booster power pack for electric vehicles.

The present invention also provides an electric vehicle provided with one or more units or packs as described herein.

The vehicle may be a mobility vehicle, for example a mobility scooter or an electric wheelchair.

Aspects and embodiments may provide or be based on one or more of the following features:

1. Universal application.

2. Ability to be connected and disconnected without the need to change, modify, alter or dismantle the mobility vehicle.

3. Ability to be attached and detached from the mobility vehicle easily and without the need to change, modify, alter or dismantle the mobility vehicle.

4. Can be portable and transported easily if required (due to the compact design, light lithium batteries etc.).

Some embodiments provide or relate to an additional power source for mobility vehicles, especially mobility scooters, and more particularly scooters with a removable battery pack (about 50% of all mobility scooters), and mostly suitable for those that contain lead-acid batteries (about 90% of all scooters with the removable battery pack), which has universal application and is portable.

Some embodiments provide or relate to an additional power source with improved efficiency including a power source with a regulator.

Embodiments may have a universal application, be easy to fit, and may connect through a charger socket.

Some embodiments provide an additional power source that can be attached and connected to a mobility scooter, to provide extra usage time and travelling distance and may also provide extra power availability.

Some embodiments may be portable; other embodiments may be non-portable.

Some aspects and embodiments provide or relate to a pack that can more or less universally replace existing packs or batteries, or be in addition to them. Some embodiments comprise a regulated power source and means for connection.

Some embodiments comprise a specially-programmed converter/output voltage and current regulating means.

This can be used not only to prevent damage to the electrics of the vehicle to which it is attached (e.g. fuses), but also charging the vehicle’s batteries, keeping them at optimal charge, providing optimal voltage and current (and therefore power) as and when necessary, and improving the overall performance of the vehicle.

The booster may, for example be attached to the charger socket. Alternatively or additionally the booster may be attached or attachable as a regulated power source to the vehicle in some other way apart from the charger socket.

Attachment to a charger socket may be a convenient placed to attach the booster without the user having to dismantle or modify the vehicle. A power inhibiter is often provided on a standard vehicle and kicks in when the connector is plugged into the charger socket (at least on mobility vehicles) prevented this. Embodiments of the present invention may comprise a connector that still connects to the standard socket but stops the inhibit from kicking in (but does not prevent the inhibit if a standard charger connector is plugged in).

Some embodiments provide or relate to a converter/output voltage and current regulating means anywhere on an electric vehicle.

Another concern for embodiments of the present invention is that the vehicle electrics could get damaged, and the fuse would blow. Accordingly input power may be regulated and limited. A regulator, programmed to requirements, may therefore be provided.

Some aspects and embodiments provide or relate to a ‘universal’ type of power source that can be attached to an electric vehicle (e.g. mobility vehicle, electric bike). This may, for example be to replace the existing one or in addition to that which is already fitted.

Some aspects and embodiments may provide or relate to a more universal way of attaching to mobility vehicles.

When a standard charger is plugged into a vehicle’s charger socket power is inhibited; and this also occurs when plugging the power source into the charger socket, so although a power source can be used to charge the vehicle, at least to a point, it cannot be driven Although not as practical, this could alternatively or additionally be overcome by attaching a power source in some other way, other than through the charger socket e.g. by using its wiring in another way or by attaching the power source to other wiring on the vehicle. Some aspects and embodiments could incorporate an additional power source during assembly, (possibly without using the charger socket), and which is removable and rechargeable. This could also incorporate a voltage/current/power regulator.

In some electric vehicles power inhibit wiring is on both the charger socket wiring and the charger connector wiring. In many cases one needs the other to work, so the present invention can provide a connector for the power source that does not trigger the power inhibit via the charger socket’s wiring.

Some aspects and embodiments provide or relate to the ability to attach a power source to a mobility vehicle e.g. through the charger socket. This can be used, for example, to give the vehicle extra usage time (and therefore travelling range), which it could in theory.

In a standard electric vehicle, any more than a very light demand and a protective inline fuse will blow or some other protective component in the wiring will cut out the power to protect the circuitry. This is because the vehicle is taking more current from the additional power source, via the charger socket, than the fuse or other protective component is designed for, approximately 5Amp max.

Embodiments of the present invention may incorporate a current limiter e.g. to limit the current below 5A. This would help prevent the blowing of the fuse etc.

Embodiments of the present invention may regulate the power, the charging of the batteries etc. Embodiments may boost the power when the present batteries needed some help.

Embodiments may prevent the two battery systems (power pack and vehicle battery) from just equalising out.

Embodiments may provide a regulating component that is not only programmed to limit the output current of the power source to prevent the fuse etc from blowing, but also regulates the voltage and current at optimal levels to maintain maximal efficiency for charging, and recharging.

Embodiments may be able to reduce the voltage from the power source if the voltage of the power source is higher than the set output voltage and boost the voltage from the power source to the vehicle as and when necessary, even if the voltage in the power source is lower than the voltage of the vehicle’s batteries. In this way, the regulator is able to not only provide constant maintenance of charging and recharging of the vehicle’s batteries, a boost in power as and when the vehicle demands it, but also it ensures that some, or all of the capacity of the power source can be consumed and used up if necessary, and in the meantime the vehicle’s own batteries remain as optimally charged as possible.

In simple terms, some embodiments of the present invention may provide a universal power source that can be easily attached to any mobility vehicle, does what it is supposed to do and does not cause any problems to the vehicle. Further features of aspects and embodiments may include: an enclosure; on/off switch; capacity meter; carry handle; means for mounting the booster itself onto the vehicle.

Aspects and embodiments may provide or relate to one or more of the following features: additional power source lithium ion battery pack universal application charger socket connection method current limiter regulator more complex customised regulator/converter enclosure method of removable attachment to vehicle portable capability ancillary components

Some aspects and embodiments provide or relate to a “plug and play” universal portable recharging booster power pack for electric vehicles such as (but not necessarily limited to) mobility vehicles.

Universal application:

Some aspects and embodiments provide or relate to a pack that can more or less universally replace existing packs or batteries, or be in addition to them.

Some aspects and embodiments provide or relate to a ‘universal’ type of power source that can be attached to an electric vehicle (e.g. mobility vehicle, electric bike). This may, for example be to replace the existing one or in addition to that which is already fitted.

The booster may be mainly applicable to mobility vehicles such as mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs but possibly also to other suitable electric vehicles such as electric bikes.

Although the vast majority of mobility vehicles contain lead-acid batteries, the booster may also be suitable for those machines with Lithium-ion batteries already fitted - any reference to ‘lead-acid batteries’ below will generally also apply to a machine’s Lithium-ion batteries (and other types) if fitted. The present invention may provide the ability to be retrofitted to as many electric mobility vehicle makes and models as possible.

Some aspects and embodiments can also be fitted during new vehicle manufacture and/or assembly. It could be fitted as a removable component or designed to be more permanently installed. For example, it could be incorporated into the mobility scooter itself, eg in the battery pack, within one of the shrouds, or anywhere else suitable.

‘Plug and play’ capability:

In some embodiments the booster conveniently connects directly to the mobility scooter’s present charger socket. This may typically be a female 3-pin XLR socket as standard.

Normally, when a mobility scooter charger is connected to a mobility scooter, the wiring is connected both on the charger connector and the mobility scooter socket so that drive is inhibited and the mobility scooter can’t be driven.

Also, there is normally a fuse or other device fitted inline on the wires from the charger socket to the batteries. This is to prevent a charger with too high a current from being used and damaging the wiring and other electrics so it blows internally to prevent this. It then has to be replaced.

So ordinarily, even if one tried to, for example, attach a second battery pack through the charger socket, drive would not be possible due to the inhibiting wiring. And even if one tried to bypass or omit this inhibiting function, the current during use would be immediately too high and the internal fuse or other device would blow, and that is before the wiring has a chance to be damaged.

However, in embodiments of the present invention the connector from the booster to the mobility vehicle’s charging socket is designed in such a way that it does not inhibit drive so can be plugged directly into a mobility vehicle’s existing charging socket without any modifications or alterations to the mobility scooter.

The booster may also designed and constructed in such a way that it regulates voltage and current at optimum levels, without blowing the mobility scooter’s fuse or damaging the mobility scooter’s wiring, electrics or electronics.

No modifications are required to the machine, batteries or charger.

The booster pack may be powered by its own internal Lithium-ion batteries (although other battery types could be used e.g. lithium polymer or indeed a different form of power source).

In some embodiments specific electronics and a BMS (Battery Management System) to regulate power, voltage, current, charging, input, output, etc., Although the vast majority of mobility vehicles contain rechargeable lead-acid (LA) batteries, and this invention is intended mainly for those vehicles with lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries, although a lot less common, are found in some mobility vehicles and the booster will also be suitable for those machines with Lithium-ion batteries already fitted.

Also, this invention is particularly suitable for dismantlable, ‘car boot’ mobility scooters but can be applied to other types of mobility scooters and also electric wheelchairs too, both dismantlable and other versions.

Modern and attractive design

Compact, lightweight, portable booster with a high quality construction

Booster costs to be overall competitive compared to regular costs, e.g. having to continually replace existing mobility scooter batteries, breakdowns, repairs etc.

Versatile Application:

The booster can incorporate voltage (V) and current (A) regulation of standard values and can be attached to a mobility scooter of any size. However, the regulated voltage and current can be of any value that is required or suitable, depending on for example the mobility scooter’s battery size.

For example, most dismantlable ‘boot mobility scooters’ have 2x12V 12Ah (capacity) lead-acid batteries as standard. Larger boot mobility scooters or small standard-sized mobility scooters may have 2x12V 20Ah lead-acid batteries. Larger mobility scooters still may have 2x12V34Ah lead-acid batteries as standard or even as large as 2x12V 75Ah batteries. The booster will function perfectly well with mobility scooters of any- sized capacity (Ah) batteries, but generally, the higher the capacity rating of the batteries, the higher the regulated output current value (amperage) of the booster can be. The regulated output voltage of the booster, however, can remain the same value no matter what the capacity of the mobility scooter batteries is.

So the booster can have an output voltage of 27.2V and the current limited to 4A maximum as standard for the smaller mobility scooter, and an output voltage still of 27.2V, but the current limited to a higher value, if required, for the larger mobility scooter.

Significant Increase in Vehicle Range:

Ah capacity of Lithium-ion batteries incorporated into the booster is such that it significantly increases the range of a compact machine, and facilitates significance increase in range for larger machines, whilst also maintaining optimised battery charge.

Efficient Performance and Charging/Recharging: Specific electronics and BMS (Battery Management System) to regulate voltage, current, charging, input, output, etc., to facilitate smooth delivery of power from Lithium-ion, lead-acid or both simultaneously, optimising overall efficiency of total available battery charge and capacity.

Booster to effectively recharge and maintain charge in lead-acid batteries as their capacity is reduced during use

Electronics and BMS facilitate the ability to have a single point of charge for both the booster’s Lithium-ion batteries and the mobility scooter’s lead-acid batteries.

Ability to charge booster independently on or off-board.

Retained ability to charge lead-acid batteries independently on or off-board.

Ability to charge lead-acid batteries independently of booster.

Electronics and BMS to regulate charge between Lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries as and when required.

The booster conveniently has an on/off switch so that, although it will in practice be switched on the majority of the time, it can be switched off when either necessary or if for example the user just wishes to use the power from the mobility scooter’s batteries and keep the booster’s charge in reserve.

Safe and Reliable:

As greater demand will generally be put upon the Lithium-ion to charge, recharge and replace the lead-acid charge, the current from Lithium-ion to lead-acid will never exceed that which will blow any fuse, trip component or other protective component, nor cause any damage to the wiring leading up the lead-acid batteries or their associated circuitry. The booster must therefore incorporate means to ‘limit’ this current to below the threshold level that would otherwise cause such undesirable results. This function is incorporated into the electronics of the booster.

If during use the lead-acid happens to be of a greater charge than the booster’s Lithium-ion, then there could ordinarily be some current flow from lead-acid to Lithium-ion but the regulator prevents this.

Lithium-ion batteries, electronics, BMS any other components (except possibly cable and connecting plug) all contained within one single enclosure.

Booster can be portable and have the ability to be easily attached and detached to and from machine e.g. attached to preferably at the front underside of the seat so that it can be conveniently accessed by the user if necessary. Or it can be attached using a bracket at the back of vehicle seat, with clamp or clip, slide on and off, magnets, storage under rear of seat, etc depending on machine and preference. Means to indicate available charge of Lithium-ion and/or of Lithium-ion and lead-acid combined, and possibly with audible alarm if charge is getting too low

Means to switch booster power on/off may be desirable, e.g. to disable connection between Lithium-ion and mobility scooter’s lead-acid batteries for any reason.

Cable from enclosure to mobility vehicles will almost exclusively have XLR 3-pin male plug as standard, although other types of sockets can be catered for by means of e.g. an adaptor

Flexible and/or retractable cable with the possibility of it being stored on or within enclosure.

Some aspects and embodiments provide or relate to a booster which is connected (or connectable), attached to (or attachable), or integrated (or integratable) into a vehicle.

The booster may, for example, be integrated into a vehicle by connected by means through the charger socket etc. In other embodiments the booster is integrated by connecting using means other than through the charger socket etc.

In one embodiment a battery-powered booster with voltage and current regulating means is attached and connected to a mobility vehicle via the charger socket.

Other aspects and embodiments provide or relate to: a. A vehicle has a booster which is connected to the electrical system by means other than through the charger socket. b. As a. above and the booster is attached during vehicle production and integrated into the vehicle. c. As b. above and the booster is a detachable/attachable device. d. As a. above and the device can be fitted retrospectively, and whether it is integrated and/or detachable/attachable.

Aspects and embodiments may provide or relate to a booster when connected to a vehicle by any suitable means, whether this is: integrated during manufacture; as an integrated but detachable/attachable device during manufacture; integrated into the vehicle retrospectively; integrated retrospectively but as a detachable/attachable device.

Some aspects and embodiments provide or relate to a booster that can be integrated onto, or into, a vehicle by any suitable means, thereby providing the intended function. The present invention also provides a vehicle with a booster attached to, or integrated into the vehicle, whether this is via the charger socket or by other suitable means.

A summary of some technical features of the booster and the practical benefits thereof (not necessarily in any particular order):

1. The booster has universal application and can be attached to any suitable electric vehicle.

In the case of mobility vehicles, the booster is connected easily, conveniently and safely to the vehicle’s present charger socket without any alterations or damage to the vehicle.

It is also important that the area or part of the mobility scooter chosen is as universal as possible to all mobility scooters.

2. The booster continually provides the required increase in Voltage and Amperage, and therefore resultant Wattage, so greater power is made available to the vehicle for use as and when required.

This will allow the vehicle to maintain the user's desired speed.

This will also allow the vehicle to travel at the user's desired speed for longer.

This will also allow the vehicle to negotiate inclines more effectively and efficiently.

This will also allow the vehicle to carry loads more effectively and efficiently.

3. There is a power source and capacity within the booster, and this is therefore in addition to that which the vehicle's present batteries provide, thereby providing significantly greater overall amp hour (Ah) capacity.

The increased overall capacity will allow the vehicle to have greater usage time and also in turn allow the vehicle to travel greater distances.

This will also in turn greatly increase the interval time between charges, whilst in turn maintaining optimal charge.

4. Power supply is provided direct from the booster to the batteries present on the vehicle therefore eliminating the need for the vehicle to be connected to the mains power supply.

The vehicle's batteries can therefore be charged and recharged whenever required, whether it is 'on the go', whilst the vehicle is being used, as well as if it is stationary, switched off or in storage. The need to remove the vehicle's battery pack, or batteries, is also eliminated.

This is a very important benefit as not only is this much more convenient, but it greatly reduces the susceptibility of the mobility scooter user to injury, e.g. back pain, falling etc.

The need to use the mains charger supplied with the vehicle to charge the vehicle's batteries is also eliminated.

However, if it is desired to remove the battery pack from the mobility scooter, these batteries can be charged off the mobility scooter using the booster, either with or without the booster power source simultaneously being charged itself with its own charger. If it isn’t being charged, the booster will charge the mobility scooter batteries, and if it is being charged, it will also charge the mobility scooter batteries as well as itself being charged simultaneously.

5. The vehicle's batteries' optimum charge is regulated and maintained, which is much healthier for the batteries, maintaining optimal performance and condition as undesirable negative effects, e.g. sulfation, are reduced, thereby in turn increasing the overall life expectancy of the batteries.

This will further in turn result in less waste of vehicles' batteries, which is economically, ecologically and environmentally advantageous.

As the mobility vehicle’s battery charge is constantly regulated and maintained, maximum performance will be facilitated and made available to the vehicle, whether recharging as the mobility scooter batteries are reducing in charge during use, extra available power for use going up inclines, for a heavier load or simply just to recharge the batteries after use or if they just require a top-up charge as capacity reduces gradually whilst the mobility scooter is idle.

6. The booster conveniently, safely, simply and easily connects directly to the vehicle's existing electrical system via the vehicle’s present charging socket, and does not require the vehicle to be modified, adjusted or altered in any way. Furthermore, the booster's connecting means are constructed and designed in such a way that the power inhibit normally experienced with the connection of conventional chargers is eliminated, without any potential undesirable consequences.

It is, therefore, essentially a 'plug and play' device, which is highly desirable, convenient, safe and cost- effective for the consumer.

7. The output current and voltage is optimally regulated, whether this is the maximum required to e.g. negotiate inclines, constant charging, float charging or indeed no charging at all.

Regulating the output current and voltage ensures that the optimum level of power and charge is provided at all times. This also ensures that none, some or the entire capacity of the booster power source can be used as and when required.

This further ensures that there is no damage to any wiring, fuse or other electrical or electronic component of the vehicle during use of the booster.

8. The design of the booster is such that it itself can be charged whilst connected to the vehicle, e.g. whilst the vehicle's batteries are being charged in the usual manner, or on or off the vehicle, or indeed separately on or off the vehicle.

This means that charging the booster is also a convenient and versatile procedure, as well as the charging of the vehicle’s batteries using the booster itself if desired, whether by the booster on its own or whilst the booster is being charged, and the charge in turn charges the mobility scooter’s batteries due to the regulating ability of the booster’s electronic components.

If desired, the electronics can also be configured, or electronics can be added, to allow charging of the booster’s power source by the vehicle’s batteries, either on their own or whilst the vehicle’s batteries are being charged using their own charger and the charge passes through to the booster’s power source.

9. Other features that can be provided include means to attach the booster device itself to the vehicle, an on/off switch, visual and/or audible means to indicate available capacity, a carry handle, and so on. In the unlikely event that it may be necessary to connect the booster to the vehicle using an adaptor, this can also be provided.

A brief description of the construction and design of an embodiment of the booster:

The booster comprises:

An enclosure, an output power source, battery management system (BMS) for the actual power source, converter/output voltage and current regulating means, charger input socket for the power source, power discharge cable and connector, power on/off switch, power means capacity meter, carry handle, various interconnecting wiring means for the components where necessary. Also provided is means to facilitate the attachment of the booster to the vehicle and a charger for recharging the power source itself. Other accessories can be provided for the booster if necessary, for example a storage/travel case for the booster, adaptor for the discharge cable and/or connector, a protective cap for the discharge connector, various extra attachment means, or anything else that is required.

Further information on the various possible components of boosters formed in accordance with embodiments of the present invention:

The enclosure: A hard ABS plastic case of good quality construction

Output power source:

Possibly a Lithium-ion battery pack. Lithium-ion chosen for the many advantages it has over other battery types, especially lead-acid batteries.

Usually 24V (nominal) and can have any suitable Ah capacity depending upon requirements.

For example, most dismantlable ‘boot mobility scooters’ have 2x12V (24V total) 12Ah (capacity) lead-acid batteries as standard. Larger boot mobility scooters or small standard-sized mobility scooters may have 2x12V 20Ah lead-acid batteries. Larger mobility scooters still may have 2x12V 34Ah lead-acid batteries as standard or even as large as 2x12V 75Ah batteries. The booster will function perfectly well with mobility scooters of any-sized capacity (Ah) batteries, but generally, the higher the capacity rating of the batteries, the higher the capacity of the booster’s power source.

Lithium-ion batteries have far superior performance compared to lead-acid batteries. They will discharge much more evenly and give the full required output almost right up to the limit of the allowable discharge.

Lithium-ion batteries also have a far greater life expectancy, generally considered to be up to 10 times that of lead-acid batteries.

Even though the Lithium-ion battery pack incorporated into the booster will usually have a nominal voltage of 24V, it has higher voltage when it has been fully charged. This is generally around 29.4V. Even when lead- acid batteries of 24V (nominal) are fully charged, their voltage is around 27.2V. So for this reason, lithium-ion batteries also have a 'head start' over lead-acid batteries at the beginning of their discharge.

Lithium-ion batteries also hold their charge much longer and have a much longer shelf-life than lead-acid batteries, barely losing a couple of percent of capacity per month during storage, as opposed to 10-50 percent lost per month for lead-acid batteries. And if the lead-acid capacity gets too low, they cannot be charged and will need to be renewed, at great expense.

One function of the booster is that it can be connected to the vehicle continuously, e.g. during storage, and will virtually wipe out the possibility that the vehicle’s batteries completely discharge.

So not only does the booster provide better performance and longer life-expectancy to the vehicle’s batteries, but its own power source will outlast the life of the vehicle’s batteries. This is a tremendous convenient and economic advantage as well as being better for the environment and resources.

It is an important point of note that the booster’s output power source complies with the necessary regulations and certification. Battery Management System (BMS):

The electronic system that manages the power source itself (rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack), such as by protecting the battery from operating outside its safe operating area, monitoring its state, calculating secondary data, reporting that data, controlling its environment, authenticating it and / or balancing it. The battery management system (BMS) is the electronic regulator that monitors and controls the charging and discharging of the rechargeable batteries.

This BMS is the regulator for the actual rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack itself and is a separate component to the booster’s output voltage and current regulator/converter.

The BMS also ensures that the power source never discharges below that which would cause damage to the cells or make it impossible to recharge.

Converter/output voltage and current regulating means:

An electronic component that acts as a voltage and current converter, regulator and current-limiter. Regulating circuitry maintains the output voltage and current at optimum levels and ensures that the output voltage is either greater or less than the input voltage depending upon the demand and also the state of charge of both the booster’s battery pack and mobility vehicle batteries. In this way, the mobility scooter’s batteries are maintained in an optimal state of charge and in turn facilitates optimal overall performance for the mobility scooter.

The current-limiting function of the regulator ensures that the output current never exceeds that which will damage any of the components, fuses, wiring, electrics or electronics of the vehicle to which the booster is connected.

The booster will function perfectly well with mobility scooters of any-sized capacity (Ah) batteries, but generally, the higher the capacity rating of the batteries, the higher the regulated output current value (amperage) that the booster can provide. The regulated output voltage of the booster, however, can remain the same value no matter what the capacity of the mobility scooter batteries is.

So the booster can have an output voltage of 27.2V and the current limited to 4A maximum as standard for the smaller mobility scooter, and an output voltage still of 27.2V, but the current limited to a higher value, if required, for the larger mobility scooter.

Such is the efficiency of its converter/output voltage and current regulating means, that the booster can even charge and power mobility scooter batteries that are very low in voltage, very old, or even so completely exhausted that they will not power the mobility scooter at all, and their voltage is so low that they can’t even be charged. The booster will either charge the mobility scooter batteries and/or power the mobility scooter motor via the mobility scooter batteries, through their own electrical circuitry.

It is an important point of note that the booster’s converter/output voltage and current regulating means complies with Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) regulations and appropriate certification. Charger input socket for the power source:

This is used to connect the booster’s charger to the booster’s power source. This is preferably of a different design to the discharge cable connector to avoid any confusion.

Power discharge cable and connector:

Carries voltage and current to the vehicle’s charging socket to which it connects. The discharge connector is preferably of a different design to the charger input socket for the power source to avoid any confusion. The discharge cable is preferably a coiled or curly cable, which allows stretching and retraction, for example for different lengths that it has to stretch to locate the vehicle’s charge socket without pulling on the attachment of the cable to the booster enclosure, or if for example the vehicle has a swivel seat which temporarily stretches the cable if the booster is attached e.g. to the underside of the seat. Also, in the unlikely event that a user catches the cable with e.g. their foot, then the elasticity of the cable will allow it to stretch. However, the cable can also be a standard straight cable or any other form of discharge transmission means. Also, the discharge cable can be disconnected from the enclosure if desired, as well as its ability to be disconnected from the vehicle.

The booster could be connected in other ways apart from through the charger socket method.

It should also be noted that, for example, the booster may connect directly into the vehicle’s electrics, whether this is through the vehicle’s charger socket, its wiring or via other means to the vehicle’s electrical system, or any other suitable method. And in the latter cases, a discharge cable may not be necessary, only a connective component or components of any suitable design.

Power on/off switch:

To enable the booster’s power to be switched on or off when desired to isolate discharge, e.g. when transporting or storing the booster.

Power means capacity meter:

Preferably LED meter for monitoring the state of charge (capacity) of the booster’s power source.

Carry handle:

Strong ABS plastic carry handle attached to the booster enclosure to enable easy and safe portability and transportation of the booster, as well as to aid attaching and removal of the booster from the attachment means and/or vehicle.

Various interconnecting wiring means for the components where necessary:

To enable the components to be connected effectively, functionally and safely.

Means of attachment of the booster to the vehicle: It is important that the booster is attached to a part of the scooter that is secure, safe, convenient, practical and provides ease of access by the user should they need it.

It is also important that the area or part of the mobility scooter chosen is as universal as possible to all mobility scooters.

If the mobility scooter’s charger socket is located near or under the seat, then the booster is usually attached to the front underside of the seat but also can be attached e.g. to the rear of the seat if more practical. If the mobility scooter’s charger socket is located nearer the front of the mobility scooter, e.g. on the tiller or front column then the booster can be attached to or in the front storage basket for example, or on the tiller itself. But any safe, convenient and practical area is also acceptable. Various materials can be used, depending upon requirements, using strong material, straps, clips, Velcro etc.

For example, if the booster is attached under the front of the seat of a mobility scooter, the booster may be housed in a custom-made canvas enclosure and secured with e.g. Velcro (RTM) or other hook and loop type straps which allow easy attachment and removal of the booster. The canvas enclosure itself is attached easily and conveniently with e.g. Velcro (RTM) straps, which in turn allow ease of attachment and removal from the mobility scooter itself if and when desired.

Charger for recharging the power source itself:

For example, if the power source is a lithium-ion battery pack, a (preferably) smart charger is provided to enable quick, safe and easy charge of the lithium-ion battery pack. The connector is preferably of a different design to the discharge cable connector to avoid confusion.

Other accessories can be provided for the booster if necessary:

Storage/travel case for the booster: a custom-made hard/semi-hard to enclose the booster and charger for storage and transportation.

Adaptor for the discharge cable and/or connector: if in the unusual case that the mobility vehicle doesn’t have a standard XLR charging socket, an adaptor can be provided so that the booster can still function as normally.

A protective cap for the discharge connector: to protect the end of the discharge cable connector from dust and dirt and although small, to negate any possibility of short-circuit to the power source if for example a metal object was inserted into it. This will not happen if the booster is switched off anyway, but it adds greater protection. The protective cap may include a retractable rubber bellows which compresses when the connector is pushed into the charger socket, allowing the connector to be securely attached and also gives protection against foreign objects, rain etc. When the connector is pulled out of the socket, the bellows part of the cap pushes the end of the cap into position over the connector, Various extra attachment means: if and when required, to enable easy and safe attachment of the booster to the vehicle.

Anything else that is required: for example, custom-made attachments, handles, connectors, cable extensions, etc.

A brief description of an example of how the booster may be attached to and detached from a mobility scooter:

By way of example, attaching and detaching to a dismantlable, ‘boot’ mobility scooter under the front of the seat, is briefly described:

To attach booster:

Ensure the mobility scooter is switched off.

The canvas enclosure of the attachment harness is located to the underside and front of the mobility scooter’s seat.

One end of the long straps attached to the fabric enclosure is placed over the top of the seat, behind, and forwards to meet the other end located on the fabric enclosure and they are clipped together with the side- release buckle.

The above is repeated with the other long strap.

The fabric enclosure is checked that it is in the correct position under the front of the underside of the seat and adjusted if necessary.

With the on/off switch in the ‘off position, the booster is held using the handle and then it is slid into the fabric enclosure until it rests snugly and securely within it.

Apply the Velcro securing straps around the fabric enclosure and booster.

The discharge cable connector is then connected into the mobility scooter’s charger socket.

The on/off switch on the booster is now switched to the ‘on’ position or kept in the ‘off position, as required.

To detach booster:

Ensure the mobility scooter is switched off. Ensure the booster is switched off.

Disconnect the booster discharge cable from the mobility scooter charger socket.

Lift off the Velcro securing straps.

Holding onto the booster’s handle, pull the booster out from the canvas enclosure.

If desired, unclip the side-release buckles and remove the harness from the mobility scooter.

The mobility scooter has a seat over three, four or more wheels, sometimes a flat area or foot plates for the feet, and handlebars or a delta-style steering arrangement in front to turn the steerable wheels. The seat may swivel to allow access when the front is blocked by the handlebars.

A brief description of an example of how the booster commonly functions in practice whist used in conjunction with a mobility scooter:

By way of example, the following refers to using a booster in conjunction with a dismantlable, ‘boot’ mobility scooter:

With the booster attached onto the mobility scooter, the user mounts the mobility scooter and switches on the booster.

If the mobility scooter batteries are not completely charged, the booster will immediately start to charge the batteries.

With the mobility scooter switched on, the user starts to move the vehicle using the mobility scooter’s controls and the motor is powered by the mobility scooter’s batteries.

As soon as the charge drops in the batteries at all, the regulator in the booster detects this and the booster immediately supplies charge to them, aiming to keep them as fully charged as possible. The more the demand, the more charge the booster supplies.

If the mobility scooter encounters an incline for example, or other increase in motor power demand, greater demand is placed upon the mobility scooter’s batteries and in turn greater charge is required of the booster, the regulator detects this and increases the output to the mobility scooter’s batteries.

If the set maximum output for the regulator is reached, the regulator maintains this but doesn’t allow the output to go higher than the set maximum, due to its current-limiting function. Once the incline or other reason for greater demand placed upon the mobility scooter’s batteries diminishes, the booster’s regulator detects this and will adjust the booster output accordingly. However, if the mobility scooter’s batteries have discharged to the extent that they still require recharging even though the increase in demand from the motor has reduced, the regulator will again detect this and will continue to charge the batteries at maximum. Once the demand is less than the set maximum of the regulator, the output from the booster will again reduce accordingly.

The booster will continue to recharge the mobility scooter batteries until they are fully charged, even after there is no demand from the motor but the mobility scooter batteries are still below full charge.

Once the mobility scooter batteries are completely charged, the regulator will again detect this and stop providing charge to the mobility scooter batteries.

Whilst the mobility scooter is sat idle, its batteries will occasionally lose a small amount of charge. If the booster is still connected and as long as the booster remains switched on, it will continue to keep the mobility scooter batteries fully charged, ready for use.

Once the mobility scooter has finished being used, several options for recharging both the mobility scooter batteries and the booster’s power source: a) The booster can be recharged using the booster’s charger whist it is still connected to the mobility scooter, which will in turn continue to charge the mobility scooter’s batteries simultaneously; b) Charge the mobility scooter batteries on their own, on the mobility scooter, using the mobility scooter’s charger; c) Charge both the mobility scooter’s batteries and the booster’s power source using their respective chargers; d) Remove the mobility scooter’s batteries only and charge these separately from the booster, which itself can be charged on or off the mobility scooter; e) Remove the booster only and again charge separately; f) Remove both the booster and the mobility scooter battery pack and charge separately using their respective chargers; g) Remove both the mobility scooter batteries and the booster and then reconnect the booster to the battery pack, and let the booster charge and maintain the charge of the mobility scooter batteries on its own or; h) Remove both the mobility scooter batteries and the booster and then reconnect the booster to the battery pack; connect the booster charger to the booster which will in turn charge the mobility scooter batteries simultaneously.

The above illustrates the many advantages that the booster provides to electric vehicles, especially mobility scooters, and their users, economically, environmentally, practically, conveniently, less physically- demanding, overall costs etc whilst keeping the vehicle’s batteries optimally charged and in the best condition, which in turn provides maximum performance and prolonged life.

The present invention is more described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The example embodiments are described herein in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to embody and implement the systems and processes herein described. It is important to understand that embodiments can be provided in many alternative forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein.

Accordingly, while embodiments can be modified in various ways and take on various alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and described in detail herein. There is no intent to limit to the particular forms disclosed.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein are to be interpreted as is customary in the art. It will be further understood that terms in common usage should also be interpreted as is customary in the relevant art and not in an idealised or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

All orientational terms, such as upper, lower, radially and axially, are used in relation to the drawings and should not be interpreted as limiting on the invention.

A brief description of the drawings etc (By way of examples only):

Figure 1 : A booster 10 formed according to an embodiment of the present invention shown in side, elevation and front views.

Figure 2: Front perspective view of a dismantlable ‘boot’ mobility scooter 120 with a booster 110 attached to the front underside of the seat 122 and connected to the mobility scooter’s battery pack charger socket 124.

Figure 3: Side view of a dismantlable ‘boot’ mobility scooter with a booster 210 attached to the front underside of the seat 222 and connected to the mobility scooter’s battery pack charger socket 224.

Figure 4: Side view of a mobility scooter with a booster attached 310 to the rear of the seat 322 and connected to the mobility scooter’s charger socket 324.

Figure 5: Rear perspective close-up view of a mobility scooter seat with the booster attached to the rear of the seat. Figure 6: Front perspective view of a mobility scooter with a booster 410 attached to/within a front storage basket 426 and connected to the mobility scooter’s charger socket 424.

Figure 7: Front perspective view of a mobility scooter’s battery pack 530, detached from the mobility scooter; the booster 510 connected to it, with the booster’s own charger 512 connected to the booster so both the booster 510 and the battery pack 530 are charged simultaneously.

Figure 8 (Graph 1): 12 Volt Lead Acid Battery State of Charge (SOC) vs. Voltage while battery is under charge.

Figure 9 & 10 (Graphs 2 & 3): 12 Volt Lead Acid Battery State of Charge (SOC) vs. Voltage while battery is under discharge.

Figure 11 & 12 (Graph 4 and Tablel):

Graph 4: Charge states of lithium-ion. Li-ion is fully charged when the current drops to a set level. In lieu of trickle charge, some chargers apply a topping charge when the voltage drops.

Table 1 : Typical charge characteristics of lithium-ion. Adding full saturation at the set voltage boosts the capacity by about 10 percent but adds stress due to high voltage.

Figure 13 (Graph 5): Volts/capacity vs. time when charging lithium-ion. The capacity trails the charge voltage ‘like lifting a heavy weight with a rubber band’.

Figure 14 (Graph 6): Discharge characteristics of NCR18650B Energy Cell by Panasonic. The 3,200mAh Energy Cell is discharged at 0.2C, 0.5C, 1C and 2C. The circle at the 3.0V/cell line marks the end-of- discharge point at 2C.

Figure 15: A simple, widely-used current limiter consists of a current sensor (usually a low-value sense resistor), a control circuit and a pass resistor.

Figure 16: This more complicated current limiter has the advantage of much lower voltage drop than that in Figure 15, which is a critical factor in circuits operating from low-value supplies.

Figure 17: Variation of load, Q1 , and Q1 +RSENSE voltages vs a range of load-current values shows relative flatness.

Figure 18: The expanded view of Q1 and Q1 +RSENSE voltages more clearly shows the current-limiting foldback action that occurs when the load current exceeds the set limit.

Figure 19 - TRIALS GRAPH:

Description of the Graph: To test the performance, capabilities and effectiveness of the booster, a typical mobility scooter was run at full speed (4mph) on a weighted rolling road, that simulates a user load of approximately 90kg (14 stone). The scooter travelling time (an indication of distance) was digitally timed and the voltage (charge) of its onboard lead-acid batteries taken by way of a digital voltmeter, at regular intervals, until the mobility scooter cut out due to lack of output from its regular on-board batteries.

The same test was run with the booster connected, and at different MAX current output amperage settings but always at the optimum voltage for charging of 27.2V.

Horizontal Axis: Time until cut out

Vertical Axis: Mobility scooter on-board battery voltage.

Referring to the graph:

RED Line: New Batteries without booster first run.

GREEN Line: New Batteries without booster second run.

DARK BLUE: New Batteries plus booster connected, set @ 27.2V and 1 A PURPLE: New Batteries plus booster connected, set @ 27.2V and 2A LIGHT BLUE: New Batteries plus booster connected, set @ 27.2V and 3A

ORANGE: Charge of the Lithium-ion battery within and powering the booster whilst it was set @ 27.2V 3A

The graph clearly shows that, at 1 A the booster adds almost an extra 50% to travelling time (which translates into additional distance travelled) to the mobility scooter; at 2A nearly 100% additional travelling time, and at 3A well over 100% additional travelling time.

The voltage of Lithium-ion battery within the booster powering the mobility scooter remained stable, with smooth, gradual discharge and always of a greater voltage than the mobility scooter's on-board batteries.

FURTHER EMBODIMENTS and FITTING/ATTACHMENT METHODS:

Figure 20: Enclosure in a protective bag ( this is how I anticipate the Booster could be produced)

Figure 21 : Enclosure in bag, on/off switch & connector end with protective flap Figure 22: Enclosure in bag and with attachment straps

Figure 23: Enclosure out of bag (before on/off switch attached so please see photo 5 below and add on-off switch)

Figure 24: Enclosure out of bag (connector/on-off switch end)

Figure 25: Enclosure out of bag (LED end)

FURTHER FITTING/ATTACHMENT METHODS: NB: ENSURE BOTH THE MOBILITY VEHICLE AND THE BOOSTER POWER MODULE ARE SWITCHED OFF BEFORE FITTING FURTHER FITTING METHOD 1

1. Position the booster in front of the battery box

2. Feed the centre hook & loop strap through the battery box handle

3. Feed the end of the strap through the strap buckle attached to the booster, and take hold of it again as it is fed through.

4. With one hand supporting the booster, pull on the strap with the other hand and guide it towards the battery pack handle, gradually taking up the slack in the strap as you do so, until the booster is fairly tight up against the handle

5. Now firmly press the hook & loop side of the strap that you are holding with one hand onto the hook & loop side of the strap that is wrapped around the handle of the battery pack.

6. If not required, cut off excess non-attached strap, but leave at least 10cm free end, which is used to unfasten the strap when removing the booster

7. Carefully insert the yellow XT plug into the OUTPUT’ socket on the booster

8. Insert the 3-pin plug into the charger socket on the battery box

9. The booster is now ready for use

(Figures 26-28)

FURTHER FITTING METHOD 2:

1. Position the booster to the front (in basket if present) or rear of the mobility vehicle tiller.

2. Wrap the side hook & loop strap around the tiller, being careful to avoid any controls. Feed the end through the side buckle, gently tighten the strap whilst supporting the booster and firmly press the hook & loop sides together.

3. Carefully insert the yellow XT plug into the OUTPUT’ socket on the booster

4. Insert the 3-pin plug into the charger socket on the tiller of the mobility vehicle.

5. If necessary, cut off excess non-attached strap, but leave at least 10cm free end, which is used to unfasten the strap when removing the booster. The booster is now ready for use.

(Figure 29)

FURTHER FITTING METHODS 3:

If the mobility vehicle’s round 3-pin charger socket is located neither on the battery box nor the tiller, but is located somewhere else (e.g. under/behind the seat, or on the armrest of an electric wheelchair), REFER TO FITTING METHOD 1 above but instead of attaching the middle hook & loop strap to the battery box handle, it can be attached to either the seat cushion, armrest or a suitable section of the seat frame. The side hook & loop strap is also used to assist with the attachment. Cut off excess non-attached strap, but leave at least 10cm free end, which is used to unfasten the strap when removing the booster. Possible attachment methods: Seat frame attachment method: middle strap around suitable section of the seat frame and side strap around seat stem(s) (Figure 30)

Seat cushion attachment method: middle strap around seat cushion and side strap around seat stem(s) (Figure 31)

Armrest attachment method: middle strap around armrest and side strap around armrest downtube (Figure 32) FURTHER FITTING METHOD 4:

Booster fitted inside the vehicle, e.g. inside a battery box; the booster may be integrated inside a scooter e.g. with an external handle so as to be removable.

Although possibly preferable, the booster incorporated inside the vehicle doesn't need to be within the battery box, but could be anywhere in or on the vehicle. The booster can be fitted with or without an 'external handle', i.e, can be either a permanent/semi-permanent installation or removable.

Different aspects and embodiments of the invention may be used separately or together. Further particular and preferred aspects of the present invention are set out in the accompanying independent and dependent claims. Features of the dependent claims may be combined with the features of the independent claims as appropriate, and in combination other than those explicitly set out in the claims. Each aspect can be carried out independently of the other aspects or in combination with one or more of the other aspects. Although illustrative embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in detail herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments shown and that various changes and modifications can be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.