TECHNICAL FIELD

[1] The present invention relates to a portable power hub.

BACKGROUND

[2] Any references to methods, apparatus or documents of the prior art are not to be taken as constituting any evidence or admission that they formed, or form part of the common general knowledge.

[3] Electric vehicles are being adopted by more consumers each year. However, infrastructure throughout remote areas likely remains a barrier to entry to the purchase and use of electrical vehicles. Remote areas will likely see standardised infrastructure for electrical vehicles only once widespread adoption of electric vehicles has occurred.

[4] In other industries, power systems which allow monitoring of environmental conditions, assets and/or effects of natural disasters are becoming of increasing importance in ensuring safe measures are undertaken as well as the requisite maintenance and care are provided. In some instances, access to humans is dangerous and/or impossible due to a number of factors.

[5] New systems and methods for providing remote access to power as well as utilising that power for a beneficial outcome is desirable. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[6] In an aspect, the invention provides a portable power hub comprising: a housing comprising one or more batteries for storing energy; one or more photovoltaic arrangements adjustable relative to the housing and electrically connected to the one or more batteries for charging the one or more batteries; one or more wind turbines adjustable relative to the housing and electrically connected to the one or more batteries for charging the one or more batteries; a deployable compartment of the housing having a charging apparatus for engaging with and charging a deployable vehicle; wherein the deployable compartment is configured to be energised by the one or more batteries and to be deployed from the housing for the launching of a deployable vehicle to an environment outside of the housing according to a predetermined charging status of a charging module associated with the deployable vehicle.

[7] In an embodiment, the one or more wind turbines are substantially cylindrical.

[8] In an embodiment, the one or more wind turbines each comprise at least one substantially helical vane.

[9] In an embodiment, the one or more wind turbines are configured to be operable independent of the direction of a wind flow. [10] In an embodiment, the one or more wind turbines are configurable to be stowed and/or locked relative to the housing.

[11] In an embodiment, the one or more photovoltaic arrangements are configured to be stowed and/or locked relative to the housing.

[12] In an embodiment, the deployable compartment is configured to deploy according to timer.

[13] In an embodiment, the portable power hub comprises a deployable vehicle.

[14] In an embodiment, the deployable compartment is configured to deploy according to a charge of the deployable vehicle exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[15] In an embodiment, the deployable vehicle is configured to deploy when the deployable compartment is deployed.

[16] In an embodiment, the deployable compartment is configured to deploy according to a position of the deployable vehicle relative to the deployable compartment.

[17] In an embodiment, the deployable vehicle comprises an autonomous aerial vehicle, a remote-control vehicle or an autonomous car. [18] In an embodiment, the predetermined threshold is dependent on the instantaneous distance of the deployable vehicle from the deployable compartment.

[19] In an embodiment, the deployable compartment is stowed while the deployable vehicle completes a task.

[20] In an embodiment, the task comprises making measurements and/or obtaining photographic or videographic information from an area.

[21] In an embodiment, the portable renewable power hub is coupled to a trailer for towing by a vehicle.

[22] In an embodiment, the portable power hub further comprises a communication module for receiving instructions for the deployable vehicle and/or communicating a status of the deployable vehicle and/or the portable power hub.

[23] In another aspect, the invention provides a method of deploying a deployable vehicle, the method comprising: providing a housing comprising one or more photovoltaic arrangements and one or more wind turbines in a location, wherein each of the one or more photovoltaic arrangements and the one or more wind turbines are electrically connected to one or more batteries for storing generated energy; arranging the one or more photovoltaic arrangements in an orientation for generating energy; arranging the one or more wind turbines to be substantially orthogonal to a wind flow; deploying a deployable compartment of the housing having a charging module for a deployable vehicle when a charge status of the charging module exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[24] In an embodiment, the method further comprises deploying the deployable compartment when the charge of the deployable vehicle decreases below a predetermined threshold.

[25] In an embodiment, the method further comprises updating the task according to a change in an environmental condition.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[26] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

Figure 1 is an isometric view of a portable power hub in between a stowed and a deployed condition according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2 is an isometric front portable power hub of Figure 1 in a stowed condition.

Figure 3 is an isometric view of a portable power hub having the deployable compartment deployed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is an isometric rear view of the portable power hub of Figure 3. Figure 5 is an isometric bottom view of the portable power hub of Figure 3.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[27] Figures 1 to 2 illustrate a portable power hub 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The portable power hub 10 comprises a housing 12 having one or more batteries (not shown) for storing an electric charge for use in powering or recharging of electrical componentry, such as a deployable compartment 40 and an associated charging apparatus 42 for a deployable vehicle 100. In the preferred embodiment, the housing 12 comprises an existing shipping container refitted for the purposes as outlined herein. Preferably, the housing 12 is configured to be substantially weatherproof. While the preferred embodiment is described using a housing 12 defined using a shipping container, the person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that various containers, housings, bodies may be used to for this purpose. Shipping containers provide excellent structural qualities while also providing connection points for coupling the portable power hub 10 to a trailer, such as trailer 50 shown in Figures 3 to 5, for transport to a desired location. Preferably, the portable power hub 10 is for use in providing power in a remote location or a location away from an accessible utility grid which requires electricity.

[28] Referring to Figure 1 to 5, each of the portable power hubs 10 comprise one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20. Each of the photovoltaic arrangements 20 may comprise a single photovoltaic panel or an assembly comprising a plurality of photovoltaic panels. Each of the photovoltaic arrangements 20 are electrically connected to the one or more batteries for supplying power generated by the photovoltaic arrangements 20 to charge the one or more batteries. Preferably, each of the photovoltaic arrangements 20 are adjustable relative to the housing 12. In the preferred embodiment, each of the photovoltaic arrangements 20 comprises at least one linear actuator 22 and at least one mounting bracket 24 as best seen in Figure 5. In some embodiments, two or more mounting brackets 24 and two or more linear actuators 24 may be used as seen in Figure 2. The mounting bracket may be coupled to the housing 12 at a first end. The photovoltaic arrangements 20 may be mounted to a second end of the mounting bracket 24. The linear actuator 24 may be coupled at or near the mounting bracket 24 such that as the linear actuator 24 extends, the photovoltaic arrangement 20 is caused to rotate relative to the connection of the mounting bracket 24 and the housing 12. The person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that there are a number of known ways in which the photovoltaic arrangements 20 may be coupled to the housing 12 while providing the ability to articulate and be adjusted to match optimal conditions for generating energy.

[29] In one embodiment, the one or more wind turbines 30 may be configured to move into an operable position only when the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20 reduce below a predetermined threshold. For example, the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20 may be stowed at night and the one or more wind turbines 30 may be moved into an operable configuration. In this manner, neither renewable energy collection apparatus impedes the other and energy may be generated, and the one or more batteries charged at any time during the day and/or night. [30] Each of the portable power hubs 10 comprise one or more wind turbines 30. Each of the wind turbines 30 are electrically connected to the one or more batteries for supplying power generated by the wind turbines 30 to charge the one or more batteries. Preferably, each of the wind turbines 30 are adjustable relative 30 to the housing 12. In the preferred embodiment, the wind turbines 30 are located on the housing 12 as they may receive input air flow from any of 360° to rotate and generate energy. Preferably, the one or more wind turbines 30 are cylindrical and/or balanced so as to reduce an initial force required to overcome inertia to initiate rotation and generate energy. Preferably, the wind turbines 30 comprise one or more substantially helical blades 32. Helical blades 32 are preferred as the improve the range in which oncoming air flow may be captured by a respective one or ones of the helical blades to initiate or continue rotation to generate energy. Therefore, there is no need to orient the one or more wind turbines 30 as air flow in any radial direction may induce rotation of the one or more wind turbines 30. Accordingly, the one or more wind turbines 30 are configured operable independent of the direction of air flow when deployed as seen in Figures 3 to 5.

[31] In the preferred embodiment, the portable power hub 10 comprises a computer system (not shown) comprising a processor, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium having instructions for operating the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20, the one or more wind turbines 30 and/or the deployable compartment 40 (discussed in further detail below). Additional components required for power management of the one or more batteries receiving power from the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20 and the one or more wind turbines 30 and/or to operate the deployable compartment 40, charging apparatus 42 and drone 100 would be available to the person skilled in the art. The computer system of the power hub 10 may further comprise a communication module comprising one or more transceivers for remotely receiving new/updated instructions based on changing environmental conditions and updating the drone 100 to proceed under the new/updated instructions. The person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that there are a number of known communication networks and devices useable for the aforementioned purposed. For example, each of the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 30 may be configured to move to a deployed condition each morning and be moved to a stowed configuration each night. A user may be able to remotely connect to the computer system of the portable power hub 10 to configure each of the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20, the one or more wind turbines 30 and/or the deployable compartment 40 to be stowed where inclement or undesirable weather which may cause damage to the portable power hub 10 is expected in the area.

[32] The portable power hub 10 may communicate with a remote computer system operated by a user through known means such as cellular or satellite communication. The portable power hub 10 may communicate with the drone 100 by way known wireless network protocols including, but not limited to, WiFi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC) or other known communication means.

[33] Referring to Figure 2, there is provided a portable power hub 10 in a stowed condition of the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20 and the one or more wind turbines 30. The stowed condition may be preferable where there is expected to be inclement weather and/or when preparing the portable power hub 10 to be transported to/from a location. When in the stowed condition, the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20 and/or the one or more wind turbines 30 may be locked in position. The person skilled in the art would readily appreciate a number of ways in which the photovoltaic arrangements 20 and/or the one or more wind turbines 30 may be locked in position. For example, there may tie down straps and/or locking pins to lock the photovoltaic arrangements 20 and/or the one or more wind turbines 30 in the stowed condition. The one or more wind turbines 30 may also comprise a locking pin for locking the one or more wind turbines in a deployed condition.

[34] Referring to Figures 3 to 5, there is provided a preferred embodiment of the portable power hub 10 which comprises a deployable compartment 40. The deployable compartment 40 may be formed integrally within the housing 12 or may be coupled to the housing 12. The deployable compartment 40 may comprise linear actuators (not shown) for extending away from the housing 12 to provide clearance for inserting and/or removing articles from the deployable compartment 40. Preferably, the deployable compartment 40 comprises the charging apparatus 42 for a deployable vehicle, preferably an autonomous aerial vehicle 100 (hereinafter referred to as a drone 100). The person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that there are a number of vehicles which may be suitable for use with the present invention whether autonomous or remote-controlled by a user. Preferably, the drone 100 is configured to launch/land from engagement with the charging apparatus 42. Preferably, the charging apparatus 42 comprises conductive charging points which abut complementary charging points on the drone 100. The deployable compartment 40 may comprise a cradle or guiding projections (not shown) for assistance in locating the drone 100 relative to the charging apparatus 42 during landing for recharging. The present invention may also incorporate inductive charging to reduce the need for any direct physical connection between the drone 100 and the charging apparatus 42.

[35] Subject to a purpose for the drone 100 and its respective tasks, the deployable compartment 40 may be configured to deploy when the charging apparatus completes a charging cycle of the drone 100. In alternative embodiments, multiple drones 100 may be serviced by each portable power hub 10. Accordingly, to ensure efficient use of the drone(s) 100, there may be a lower threshold which will allow the deployable compartment 40 to be deployed so as to most efficiently manage recharging of multiple drones. For example, where a charging apparatus 42 charging a first drone registers a 90% or higher charge and a second drone is returning to the deployable compartment 40, the deployable compartment 40 may deploy even where the charging apparatus 42 has not yet registered a full charge on the first drone. Furthermore, where a remaining task is calculated to require less than a full charge, the deployable compartment 40 may be deployed when the charging apparatus 42 registers a threshold above the expected charge required to complete the remaining task. In further alternative embodiments, the deployable compartment 40 may be deployed according to a timer.

[36] In the preferred embodiment, the deployable compartment 40 may be stowed while the drone 100 completes a task. In alternative embodiments, the deployable compartment 40 may comprise guard members 44 which open and close to cover and uncover the charging apparatus 42 and deployable compartment 40. Accordingly, the guard members 44 may be closed while the drone 100 is completing a task to avoid or reduce the need to stow the deployable compartment 40. The task may comprise a number of sub-tasks or operations which occur before the deployable vehicle returns to the deployable compartment. For example, the task may include, but is not limited to, making measurements within the environment, taking photographs and/or video within an area. This is advantageous in that some instances, it may be a harsh environment where workers would have reduced capacity to act, such as for example, bush fires or flooded areas.

[37] In the preferred embodiment, the deployable compartment 40 may remain in communication with the drone 100 if at least while the drone is within a certain distance from the portable power hub 10. Accordingly, the deployable compartment 100 is configured to deploy or store based on the position and proximity of the drone 100 relative to the portable power hub 10. As such, when the instantaneous distance of the drone 100 is within a predetermined distance from the portable power hub 10 and the deployable compartment, the deployable compartment 40 may be actuated to deploy for receiving the drone 100.

[38] In the preferred embodiment, the portable power hub 10 may be releasably coupled to a trailer 50. The trailer 50 preferably comprises a connection, such as hitch 52, for being towed by a vehicle. In some embodiments, upon reaching a desired location, the portable power hub 10 may be removed from the trailer for a more permanent installation. Alternatively, the portable power hub 10 may be left on the trailer 50 wherein the trailer 50 with the portable power hub 10 is left for until it is required to be maintained. Maintenance may occur on site or the portable power hub 10 may be brought to a particular location for any maintenance or repairs.

[39] Each portable power hubs 10 may comprise an inverter for converting DC power generated by the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20 and/or the one or more wind turbines 30 to AC for use by standard electrical equipment. Furthermore, each of the portable power hubs 10 may comprise connectors for connecting an electrical vehicle (not shown) to charge an electrical vehicle.

[40] The method of deploying a deployable vehicle from a portable power hub 10 as described herein will now be described with respect to the Figures generally.

[41] The portable power hub 10 is located in a preferred location based on its intended purpose. For example, if used to monitor flooding in remote areas, the portable power hub 10 may be located on a hill or at least a relatively higher position than the surrounding areas, if available.

[42] The linear actuators 22 are activated to move each of the one or more photovoltaic arrangements 20 into an orientation for receiving solar rays to generate power and begin charging the one or more batteries. The one or more wind turbines 30 may also comprise actuators to move them into position or a user when locating the portable power hub 10 may raise and lock them into place so as to allow oncoming air flow to initiate and rotate the one or more wind turbines 30 to generate power and charge the batteries.

[43] When the one or more batteries exceed a predetermined threshold and/or the charging module within the deployable compartment exceeds a predetermined threshold, the deployable compartment 40 may be deployed so as to move the drone 100 into a position to be launched to begin performing a desired task. The deployable compartment 40 may be deployed when a charge of the drone 100 decreases below a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold for the charge of the drone 100 may be subject to a number of factors, including but not limited to, its position relative to the deployable compartment 40, its average energy consumption, environmental conditions. Furthermore, the portable power hub 10 may wirelessly or while charging communicate to the drone 100 updated instructions for performing an existing task or a new task altogether.

[44] In use, the present invention may advantageously be assembled in an urban area and delivered in desirable increments along remote stretches to effectively create an interim infrastructure network of charging stations for electric vehicles until more permanent infrastructure can be built and installed. Furthermore, the present invention may be beneficial for use in natural disasters such as monitoring changes in bushfires and/or flooding. Even further, the present invention may provide further benefits in agriculture for monitoring crop and/or livestock or other assets which require routine visual inspection. These tasks may be automated based on the territory to be monitored. Alternatively, the deployable vehicle 100 may be controlled by a user to adjust for real-time and unforeseeable changes.

[45] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. The term “comprises” and its variations, such as “comprising” and “comprised of’ is used throughout in an inclusive sense and not to the exclusion of any additional features. [46] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.

[47] The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.