Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated vehicle locking and damage prevention device providing an automated means for locking and protecting the vehicle from damage by securing the vehicle's body to the bumper, thereby ensuring stable attachment during use, while offering protection from external impacts. thus preventing any collisions or accidental contact with surrounding objects.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Vehicle locking and damage impacting both security and the physical integrity of vehicles. One major issue is the reliance on manual or semi-automated locking mechanism, which has improperly engaged or forgotten altogether, leaving the vehicle vulnerable to theft or unauthorized movement. Traditional locking mechanisms, such as wheel locks or parking brakes, also bypassed by determined thieves or fail due to wear and tear over time, preventing damage from collisions or falling objects is another significant challenge. Many vehicles rely on passive protection measures, such as bumpers or reinforced frames, which only mitigate damage after an impact has occurred rather than preventing it. Advanced devices like collision sensors often focus solely on frontal or rear impacts, neglecting protection for the roof, tires, or sides of the vehicle. Furthermore, existing solutions lack integration, leaving gaps in security and damage prevention. For instance, they detect obstacles but fail to deploy protective measures in real time. This lack of a solution limits their effectiveness in ensuring vehicle safety.

[0003] Traditional vehicle protection devices primarily include passive features such as bumpers, reinforced frames, and alarm devices while effective to some extent, these measures do not proactively mitigate potential damage from approaching obstacles or falling objects. Similarly, mechanical wheel locks and parking brakes offer limited protection against unauthorized movement, as they rely heavily on manual operation

[0004] US4127294A A protective bumper for vehicle bodies is demountable attachable to vehicle bodies by suction cups. The demountable bumper includes either a light-weight body made of cellular polystyrene or inflatable tubes made of plastic. At least two suction cups are provided for fixing the demountable bumper to a body of a vehicle. In the tubular version, the suction cups are fixed to that one of two tubes which is to be positioned above the other on a vehicle, the lower of the two tubes is preferably of a somewhat larger diameter than the tube associated with the suction cups. In the cellular polystyrene embodiment, the lower portion of that surface of the body, which is to address the side of a vehicle, is formed with at least one curved protrusion. The suction cups in this instance are desirably positioned above the protrusion.

[0005] US398132B2 A vehicle protection device includes a strip of resilient, impact-absorbing material in the form of a band. The strip of material extends around the entire vehicle: front, rear, and both sides. The band may be held in place, for example, by the resiliency of the impact-absorbing of the material.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed in order to focus on specific protective functions however the devices mentioned in the prior arts have limitations pertaining to safeguard the entire vehicle, and limited in their ability to dynamically respond to varying threats, such as rooftop damage from falling objects or collisions from multiple angles.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that protect by detecting approaching obstacles, deploying protective barriers as needed, and securely locking the vehicle to prevent unauthorized movement.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing an automated means for protecting the vehicle from damage by detecting any approaching obstacle towards the vehicle thereby securing the vehicle's body and the bumper and minimizing the potential for damage in case of a collision or contact.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of adapting an automated means for protecting the vehicle from damage by deploying a protective barrier on the vehicle’s roof when necessary thereby prevent damage from approaching obstacles.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of of adapting an automated means for protecting the vehicle from damage by ensuring the vehicle is securely locked to hold the tire, based on the ignition status, thereby preventing unauthorized movement of the vehicle.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to an automated vehicle locking and damage prevention device providing an automated means for locking and protecting the vehicle from damage by providing protective sheet over the roof to prevent any damage caused by the impact of the obstacle, ensuring the safety of the vehicle’s roof thus enhancing security of the vehicle.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated vehicle locking and damage prevention device comprising of a rectangular body developed to be installed on front and rear bumpers of a vehicle, plurality of suction cups are arranged on back portion of the body for adhering to the bumper’s surface, in view of securing the body onto the bumper, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the body and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of the body, respectively to monitor surroundings of the vehicle, for detecting any approaching obstacle towards the vehicle, an angle sensor installed on the body and synced with the imaging unit for determining inclination angle of the obstacle with respect to the bumper’s surface, that is processed by an inbuilt microcontroller, to detect a targeted area, plurality of pop out balls arranged on the back portion to rotate for rapidly moving the body towards the targeted area of the bumper, while the suction cups works simultaneously along with plurality of electromagnets configured with the body for affixing the body during the rapid motion, a cushion padding is arranged on a front portion of the body for allowing the approaching obstacle to contact with the padding, thus preventing any damage to the targeted area, a motorized roller coiled with a sheet filled with a Non-Newtonian fluid, assembled on upper portion of the body, in case the detected targeted area is on roof of the vehicle, the microcontroller actuates the roller to rotate for unwrapping the sheet, ends of which are connected with a pair of extendable L-shaped links, that is actuated by the microcontroller for extending to deploy the sheet over the roof, for creating a protective barrier to prevent any damage from the approaching obstacle.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the invention further includes a motorized clamp arranged on the body by means of a hydraulically operated rod, the microcontroller is linked with ECU (electronic control unit) of the vehicle, to detect an inactive ignition of the vehicle, based on which the microcontroller actuates the rod and clamps for securely holding a tire of the vehicle, in view of providing a secured lock for preventing unauthorized movement of the vehicle, a proximity sensor is integrated in the body and synced with the imaging unit for continuously detecting walls and other vehicles, in narrow spaces, to provide precise detection of the obstacles, a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor is integrated in the rod for determining distance between the clamp and body, based on which the microcontroller regulates operation of the rods and clamps for providing secured locking to the vehicle, in case the detected ignition status corresponds to an idle engine, for a prolonged time duration, the microcontroller generates a wireless notification to a computing unit wirelessly linked with the microcontroller to notify the user for turning off the engine, and a battery is configured with the device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an automated vehicle locking and damage prevention device

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to an automated vehicle locking and damage prevention device providing an automated means for locking and protecting the vehicle from damage by ensuring the device’s precise alignment and movement toward the targeted area, thus preventing any collisions or accidental contact with surrounding objects. Thus preventing any damage caused by the impact of the obstacle and enhancing safety of the vehicle.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an automated vehicle locking and damage prevention device illustrated comprises of a rectangular body 101 developed to be installed on front and rear bumpers of a vehicle, plurality of suction cups 102 are arranged on back portion, an imaging unit 103 installed on the body 101, a cushion padding 104 is arranged on a front portion of the body 101, a motorized roller 105 coiled with a sheet 106, assembled on upper portion of the body 101, a pair of extendable L-shaped links 107 attached at the end of sheet 106, a hydraulically operated rod 108 attached on the body 101, a motorized clamp 109 arranged on the rod 108.

[0023] The device disclosed herein comprises of a rectangular body 101 developed to be installed on front and rear bumpers of a vehicle. The body 101 is configured with plurality of suction cups 102 are arranged on back portion of the body 101 for adhering to the bumper’s surface, in view of securing the body 101 onto the bumper. The device is equipped with cushion padding 104 is arranged on a front portion of the body 101 for allowing the approaching obstacle to contact with the padding 104, thus preventing any damage to the targeted area.

[0024] The cushion padding 104 used herein is designed to absorb impact when an approaching obstacle contacts. The cushion padding 104 is made from high-density foam or elastomeric materials, the padding 104 deforms upon contact, reducing force transfer and protecting both the obstacle and the underlying structure. The placement ensures the obstacle interacts with the padding 104 first, minimizing damage and enhancing safety during collisions or controlled interactions.

[0025] The suction cup used herein is made up of rubber material. When the suction cup is pushed on the surface removes the air inside the cup which creates a partial vacuum inside. The air pressure outside is high in comparison to the partial vacuum inside the cup which keeps the cup attached to a surface. The rim of the suction cup maintains an airtight seal between the cup and the fixed surface by stopping the outside air from entering the cup for adhering to the bumper’s surface, in view of securing the body 101 onto the bumper.

[0026] The user activates the device through a push button associated with the body 101. The push button has an outer casing and an inner mechanism, including a spring and metal contacts. When the button is pressed, it pushes down on the spring-loaded mechanism inside. In the default state, the internal contacts are apart, so the circuit is open and no electricity flows. Pressing the button makes the contacts touch each other, closing the circuit and allowing electricity to flow and activate the device. The device in turn activates an inbuilt microcontroller that is pre-fed with a defined set of instructions to perform various functions. When the button is released, the spring pushes back to original position.

[0027] Upon activating the device, the microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 installed on the body 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of the body 101, respectively to monitor surroundings of the vehicle, for detecting any approaching obstacle towards the vehicle. The imaging unit 103 used herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of in vicinity of the body 101, and the captured images are stored within a memory of the imaging unit 103 in form of an optical data.

[0028] The imaging unit 103 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and detecting any approaching obstacle towards the vehicle.

[0029] Additionally, the device includes a proximity sensor is integrated in the body 101 and synced with the imaging unit 103 for continuously detecting walls and other vehicles, in narrow spaces, to provide precise detection of the obstacles. The proximity sensor used herein emits electromagnetic waves, ultrasound, or infrared signals, and detects their reflection from nearby obstacles, providing real-time distance measurements.

[0030] Simultaneously, the imaging unit 103 captures visual data of the surrounding environment. The proximity sensor's data, including distance and direction of obstacles, is processed and integrated with the imaging unit's visual data. This synchronization ensures the precise identification and localization of obstacles, allowing the microcontroller to provide accurate proximity alerts.

[0031] Post detection of the vehicle the microcontroller activates an angle sensor installed on the body 101 and synced with the imaging unit 103 for determining inclination angle of the obstacle with respect to the bumper’s surface, that is processed by the inbuilt microcontroller, to detect a targeted area. The angle sensor measures the inclination of obstacles relative to the bumper's surface by detecting changes in position or orientation. the sensor is synchronized with the imaging unit 103 through a shared data interface, typically using communication protocols like I2C, SPI.

[0032] The imaging unit 103 captures the obstacle's visual profile and calculates relative position. Simultaneously, the angle sensor detects the bumper's inclination or tilt. By integrating the sensor's real-time angular data with the imaging unit's spatial information, the microcontroller computes the obstacle's inclination angle. By combining the data that is processed by the microcontroller, to detect the targeted area.

[0033] On detection the microcontroller activates plurality of pop out balls arranged on the back portion to rotate for rapidly moving the body 101 towards the targeted area of the bumper, while the suction cups 102 with plurality of electromagnets configured with the body 101 works simultaneously for affixing the body 101 during the rapid motion. The plurality of pop-out balls on the back portion enables rapid movement toward the targeted bumper area through coordinated rotational mechanisms.

[0034] Each ball is housed in a socket allowing free rotation or is mounted on axles driven by actuators or motors. The actuators control the rotation and speed of the balls, creating directional thrust and enabling precise movement. The specific balls rotate to generate the necessary force for propulsion in the desired direction allowing the body 101 to quickly and accurately reach the targeted area while the suction cups 102 with plurality of electromagnets configured with the body 101 works simultaneously for affixing the body 101 during the rapid motion.

[0035] The electromagnet used herein is made of insulated copper wire wound into a coil and a ferromagnetic material is placed inside the coil to enhance the magnetic field. When an electric current flows through the coil of wire, it creates a magnetic field around the wire. The magnetic field is concentrated and intensified by the core material inside the coil and strengthens the overall magnetic field produced by the coil. The created magnetic field attracts both the electromagnet connected to the plate toward each other creating a connection to form the stable base for affixing the body 101 during the rapid motion.

[0036] Further in case the detected targeted area is on roof of the vehicle the microcontroller activates a motorized roller 105 coiled with a sheet 106 filled with a Non-Newtonian fluid, assembled on upper portion of the body 101 to rotate for unwrapping the sheet 106. The sheet 106 filled with a Non-Newtonian fluid exhibits adaptive mechanical properties based on the applied stress. Under low-stress conditions, the fluid remains in a viscous state, allowing the sheet 106 to maintain flexibility and conform to surfaces.

[0037] During high-impact events or sudden force application, the fluid's viscosity increases sharply, transitioning to a rigid state to absorb and dissipate kinetic energy effectively. This behaviour provides superior shock absorption and impact resistance. The sheet 106 is hermetically sealed to prevent fluid leakage, ensuring structural integrity and long-term performance.

[0038] The motorized roller 105 operates using a powered cylindrical roller 105 driven by an electric or. The motor generates torque to rotate the roller 105, which pulls the sheet 106 onto the surface. Friction between the roller 105 and the sheet 106 ensures smooth and consistent rolling. Tensioning mechanisms maintain proper alignment of the sheet 106, preventing wrinkles or uneven rolling. Speed and torque adjustments are made through the motor to accommodate sheets 106 of different thicknesses and material properties for unwrapping the sheet 106.

[0039] Followed by the microcontroller activates a pair of extendable L-shaped links 107 are connected ends of the sheet 106 to deploy the sheet 106 over the roof, for creating a protective barrier to prevent any damage from the approaching obstacle. The extendable L-shaped links 107 used herein is powered by a pneumatic unit that embodies an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves, and piston which work in collaboration to perform the extension and retraction of the links 107. The links 107 comprises a nested tube arrangement that contains multiple hollow tubes connected concentrically.

[0040] The air cylinder is attached to the bottom of the nested tube arrangement and further consists of an air piston attached to the topmost part of the nested tube arrangement from the inside. The air cylinder is integrated with one inlet and one outlet valve that is connected to an air compressor. The air compressor draws air from the surroundings and compresses it to form pressurized air which enters the inlet valve and creates a force that pushes the piston in the forward direction. As the piston moves in the forward direction, it leads to the sequential opening of the concentrically connected tubes from the top toward the bottom. This leads to the extension of the links 107 deploy the sheet 106 over the roof, for creating the protective barrier to prevent any damage from the approaching obstacle.

[0041] The microcontroller is linked with ECU (electronic control unit) of the vehicle, to detect an inactive ignition of the vehicle. The microcontroller is linked to the vehicle's ECU (Electronic Control Unit) via a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus. The ECU continuously sends data regarding various vehicle parameters, including the ignition status, to the microcontroller. The microcontroller reads the specific ignition-related signals transmitted over the CAN bus. When the ignition is inactive, the ECU transmits a status code indicating the off state. The microcontroller processes this signal and determines the ignition’s inactivity. This connection allows the microcontroller to accurately detect when the vehicle's ignition is inactive.

[0042] Based on the status the microcontroller actuates a hydraulically operated rod 108 attached on the body 101 where a motorized clamp 109 arranged on the rod 108 for securely holding a tire of the vehicle, in view of providing a secured lock for preventing unauthorized movement of the vehicle. The hydraulically operated rod 108 extend/retract through a hydraulic pump in which fluid moves from a reservoir into the hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder is a sealed tube with a piston inside. When the pump sends fluid into the cylinder, it fills one side of the piston. The fluid pressure pushes against the piston, causing it to move.

[0043] Because the piston is attached to the hydraulic rod 108, this movement extends the rod 108 outward from the cylinder. The rod 108 continues to extend as long as fluid is being pumped into the cylinder. When the rod 108 reaches the desired height, the pump stops, and the fluid remain in the cylinder for holding the rod 108 in place for positioning the clamp 109 in proximity to the tire. Followed by the motorized clamps 109 securely hold a tire by using an electric or hydraulic motor to actuate the clamp 109 mechanism.

[0044] The motor drives a set of movable arms or jaws that grip the tire tightly. The motor applies force to the arms, which are positioned around the tire’s circumference. The arms apply even pressure, ensuring a firm hold. The clamping force is adjustable based on the motor's torque and speed control. Once the tire is securely clamped, the motor maintains constant pressure to prevent slippage, for preventing unauthorized movement of vehicle.

[0045] Additionally, the device includes a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor is integrated in the rod 108 for determining distance between the clamp 109 and body 101. The LiDAR works by emitting laser pulses and measuring the time it takes for the light to reflect back from an object. The LiDAR sensor sends out rapid, low-power laser beams toward the body 101 and clamp 109. When the laser pulses hit the surface of the body 101 or clamp 109, they bounce back to the sensor.

[0046] The time delay between emission and reception of the laser pulse is used to calculate the distance to the object based on the speed of light. By continuously sending and receiving pulses, the LiDAR provides accurate, real-time measurements of the distance between the clamp 109 and the body 101, enabling precise positioning based on which the microcontroller regulates operation of the rods 108 and clamps 109 for providing secured locking to the vehicle.

[0047] In case the detected ignition status corresponds to an idle engine, for a prolonged time duration. The microcontroller sends a notification to the user on a computing unit wirelessly connected to the device regarding to notify the user for turning off the engine. The communication module, typically a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled module, ensures that the device can exchange data with the computing unit. The computing unit displays a notification on its screen, such as a visual cue or an audible sound, notifying the user for turning off the engine.

[0048] The microcontroller sends a signal to the communication module, which then transmits this data wirelessly to the computing unit. The communication module facilitates data exchange between computing unit and microcontroller by encoding and sending information over various channels, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks. The module receives and decodes incoming data from the user's command. The module incorporates error-checking mechanisms to detect and correct data corruption or loss and manages data routing to direct information to the microcontroller.

[0049] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is generally a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.

[0050] The proposed device works best in the following manner, the device comprises of the the rectangular body 101 designed to be installed on the front and rear bumpers of the vehicle, with suction cups 102 on the back portion for adhering to the bumper. The body 101 is equipped with cushion padding 104 to absorb impact from approaching obstacles. The user activates the device via the push button, which closes the circuit and activates the microcontroller, triggering the suction cups 102 to secure the body 101 to the bumper. The imaging unit 103, powered by artificial intelligence, captures and processes images to detect nearby obstacles. The microcontroller uses data from the imaging unit 103 and the synced angle sensor to calculate the obstacle's position and inclination. Upon detection, the microcontroller activates the pop-out balls to propel the body 101 towards the targeted area along with plurality of electromagnets configured with the body 101. If the target is the vehicle's roof, the microcontroller activates the motorized roller 105 with a sheet 106 filled with Non-Newtonian fluid, followed by extendable L-shaped links 107 to deploy the sheet 106 as a protective barrier. The microcontroller is linked to the ECU via the CAN bus to detect the vehicle's ignition status. If inactive, the microcontroller activates the hydraulically operated rod 108 and motorized clamp 109 to secure the tire, preventing unauthorized movement. The device also integrates the LiDAR sensor to measure the distance between the clamp 109 and the body 101, and a proximity sensor to detect walls and other vehicles in narrow spaces. In case of prolonged idle engine status, the microcontroller sends notification to the user via the wireless communication module.

[0051] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An automated vehicle locking and damage prevention device, comprising:

i) a rectangular body 101 developed to be installed on front and rear bumpers of a vehicle, wherein plurality of suction cups 102 are arranged on back portion of said body 101 for adhering to said bumper’s surface, in view of securing said body 101 onto said bumper;

ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 installed on said body 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of said body 101, respectively to monitor surroundings of said vehicle, for detecting any approaching obstacle towards said vehicle, wherein an angle sensor installed on said body 101 and synced with said imaging unit 103 for determining inclination angle of said obstacle with respect to said bumper’s surface, that is processed by an inbuilt microcontroller, to detect a targeted area;

iii) plurality of pop out balls arranged on a back portion of said body 101 to rotate for rapidly moving said body 101 towards said targeted area of said bumper, while said suction cups 102 along with plurality of electromagnets configured with said body 101 works simultaneously for affixing said body 101 during said rapid motion, wherein a cushion padding 104 is arranged on a front portion of said body 101 for allowing said approaching obstacle to contact with said padding 104, thus preventing any damage to said targeted area; and

iv) a motorized roller 105 coiled with a sheet 106 filled with a Non-Newtonian fluid, assembled on upper portion of said body 101, wherein in case said detected targeted area is on roof of said vehicle, said microcontroller actuates said roller 105 to rotate for unwrapping said sheet 106, ends of which are connected with a pair of extendable L-shaped links 107, that is actuated by said microcontroller for extending to deploy said sheet 106 over said roof, for creating a protective barrier to prevent any damage from said approaching obstacle.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a proximity sensor is integrated in said body 101 and synced with said imaging unit 103 for continuously detecting walls and other vehicles, in narrow spaces, to provide precise detection of said obstacles.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor is integrated in said rod 108 for determining distance between said clamp 109 and body 101, based on which said microcontroller regulates operation of said rods 108 and clamps 109 for providing secured locking to said vehicle.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein in case said detected ignition status corresponds to an idle engine, for a prolonged time duration, said microcontroller generates a wireless notification to a computing unit wirelessly linked with said microcontroller to notify said user for turning off said engine.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a motorized clamp 109 arranged on said body 101 by means of a hydraulically operated rod 108, wherein said microcontroller is linked with ECU (electronic control unit) of said vehicle, to detect an inactive ignition of said vehicle, based on which said microcontroller actuates said rod 108 and clamps 109 for securely holding a tire of said vehicle, in view of providing a secured lock for preventing unauthorized movement of said vehicle.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with said device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with said device.