DESC:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The subject matter of the present invention, in general, pertains to charging of electrical vehicles, and more particularly, to a method and an apparatus for intelligent charging of electrical vehicles such as e-rickshaws.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[002] The rampant problem of air pollution due to noxious exhaust emissions and energy shortage due to the rapidly depleting fossil fuels, which has recently become particularly serious in many countries has stirred the development of electric vehicles because modern batteries can be used to power such vehicles without the production of noxious fumes. From a long range standpoint, electric vehicles will also be important when fossil fuel sources will become depleted.

[003] Since 2008, a renaissance in electric vehicle manufacturing has occurred due to advances in batteries, concerns about increasing oil prices, and the desire to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. When compared with vehicles with internal combustion (IC) engines, electric vehicles are quieter and have no tailpipe emissions. Recharged by low-emission electrical power sources, electric vehicles reduce greenhouse gas emissions when compared to IC engines. Where oil is imported, use of electric vehicles can reduce imports.

[004] Electric vehicles, or clean transportation, are the need of the hour in the polluted Indian cities. There’s a huge demand for mass-mobility transport solutions in India as the ministry of transportation and pollution control board are taken to have clean energy vehicles plying on the roads. Battery is the power source of these electric vehicles that determine the performance of electric vehicles mileage.

[005] Some electric vehicles, such as e-rickshaws contain lead acid batteries which are the only source of power for driving the electric vehicle. The batteries not only need charge but to be charged in proper way after discharge for a long and trouble-free service life and maximizing the back-up duration.

[006] Recharging such batteries can take a long time and in many places there is a patchy recharging infrastructure. Battery cost limits range and increases purchase cost over IC vehicles. Drivers can also sometimes suffer from range anxiety- the fear that the batteries will be depleted before reaching their destination.

[007] Accordingly, it has been observed that the batteries are abused during its operation and charging mainly due to three reasons – a) the inability to assess the amount of charge that requires to be given to the battery after a discharge, thereby leading to overcharge or undercharge of the battery, b) the inability to assess the need for preventive servicing of the battery and c) absence of any provision of imparting equalizing charge at periodic intervals.

[008] Moreover, the chargers currently available in the market are not advanced enough to assess the actual amount of charge required by the battery after a discharge so as to avoid overcharging or undercharging of the battery. They also lack the ability to continually assess battery health so as to suggest preventive servicing of the battery to the end users. Further, they do not have any provisions for imparting equalizing charge at periodic intervals to maintain optimal battery health.

[009] To overcome said drawbacks of conventional chargers available in the market and to minimize failure of batteries, the present invention discloses an electronic battery charger that can charge batteries optimally, every time after a discharge, through its in-built intelligence without any manual intervention. It is capable of automatically maintaining the batteries in healthy condition and warns the end users to take corrective action in advance before any fault occurs in the battery.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the present invention. It is not intended to identify the key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concept of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description of the invention presented later.

[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide an intelligent, simple, portable, light weight and economic charger for charging electric rickshaw batteries.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for optimal intelligent charging of e-rickshaws, irrespective of the previous depth of discharge of the battery.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that optimally and intelligently charges e-rickshaws, irrespective of the previous depth of discharge of the battery.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide built-in % State of Charge LED indications for proper handling of battery charging to avoid under/overcharging of the battery.

[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an intelligent and unique charging profile to keep the battery automatically in healthy condition for longer mileage and improved battery life.

[0016] Yet another object of the present invention is to increase battery life and performance by providing an equalizing charging facility that removes the imbalances within the batteries.

[0017] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a battery service indicator to help an end user to take corrective action in advance for any failure of battery that may happen in future.

[0018] Yet another object of the present invention is to ensure regular optimal charging of batteries coupled with periodic equalizing charge for higher mileage, higher up time and longer service life of the battery that in turn increases the economic viability of pollution free, green electric vehicle technology.

[0019] Accordingly, in one aspect of the present invention, a charger for energizing an energy source of a rickshaw is disclosed. The charger comprises a transformer module, a control module, a power module, and a plurality of indicators. The transformer module is adapted to step down the input voltage and supply power to the control module adapted to produce control signals. The control module comprises an auxiliary power supply, a processor, a triggering and control module, a sensor module, a feedback module and an equalize charge module. The auxiliary power supply is adapted to regulate the input power received from the transformer module. The processor is configured to receive feedback and send control signals to between the control module and power module for proper functioning of the charger. The triggering and control module is adapted to modulate the control signals and generate triggering pulses for the power module. The sensor module is configured to detect the voltage within the charger. The feedback module is adapted to receive feedback signals of output voltage and current from the power module, and send the control signals from control module to power module. The equalize charge module is adapted to supply equalizing charge at periodic intervals. The control module is adapted to sense voltage through the transformer module and the signal generated therein is fed to the processor to determine whether voltage is steady within a specified time period, where when voltage of the energy source is steady within a specified time period, voltage of the energy source remains constant and the current tapers to down to lower level, and when voltage of the energy source is not steady within the specified time period, the energy source is energized at constant current of lower level. The power module comprises a plurality of switching regulators adapted to continually switches between low-dissipation, full-on and full-off states, while spending little time in high dissipation transitions.

[0020] In another aspect of the present invention, a method of energizing an energy source of a rickshaw is disclosed. This method involves the steps of sensing, by a charger, polarity and input voltage of the energy source; energizing, by the charger, the energy source at a constant current; monitoring, by the charger, voltage of the energy source; determining, by the charger, whether voltage of the energy source is steady within a specified time period; wherein when voltage of the energy source is steady within a specified time period, voltage of the energy source remains constant and the current tapers to down to lower level; and wherein when voltage of the energy source is not steady within the specified time period, the energy source is energized at constant current of lower level; and applying equalizing charge to the energy source at periodic intervals; wherein when equalizing charge is applied, the energy source is energized at constant current for specified time; and wherein when equalizing charge is not applied, the energy source is energized at a constant voltage for total charging duration to remain fixed.

[0021] This charging period depends on the duration which the charger takes while charging at 11-12A constantly. After the previous step, the system charges the battery at a constant voltage (Float Mode) so that the total duration of charging remains fixed. If the duration of charging as mentioned in first charging step is greater than certain hours, then “Battery Service” LED will start glowing. After completion of the predefined charging duration, the charging will be automatically stopped if the Equalize Push Button is not pressed. Equalize push button is present in the charger to provide equalization charge for duration as specified at certain current. To activate the equalize charging, the push button should be pressed during the first step as mentioned above, then Equalize charge will start after completion of normal charging cycle i.e. “Float Mode” will be bypassed. After the equalize charge, the charger will automatically shut down.

[0022] Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses exemplary embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0023] Figure 1 illustrates the e-rickshaw charger, according to one implementation of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 illustrates the visual indications present on the e-rickshaw charger, according to another implementation of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 illustrates a block diagram of the e-rickshaw charger, according to one implementation of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4 illustrates a flow-chart for intelligent charging of the e-rickshaw charger, according to one implementation of the present invention.

[0027] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and may have not been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figure may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0028] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of exemplary embodiments of the invention. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary.

[0029] Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0030] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0031] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0032] By the term “substantially” it is meant that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to those of skill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic was intended to provide.

[0033] Features that are described and/or illustrated with respect to one embodiment may be used in the same way or in a similar way in one or more other embodiments and/or in combination with or instead of the features of the other embodiments.

[0034] It should be emphasized that the term “comprises/comprising” when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or component but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

[0035] The subject invention lies in providing a method and a charger for energizing an energy source of a rickshaw are disclosed.

[0036] In the present invention, an intelligent, simple, portable, light weight and economic charger for charging electric rickshaw batteries is disclosed.

[0037] In one implementation, a method for optimal, intelligent charging of e-rickshaws, irrespective of the previous depth of discharge of the battery is provided for.

[0038] In another implementation, an apparatus that optimally and intelligently charges e-rickshaws, irrespective of the previous depth of discharge of the battery is provided for.

[0039] In another implementation, an intelligent e-rickshaw charger that continuously monitors the state of charge of the battery during charging and sets the charging method accordingly is provided for.

[0040] The present invention discloses a battery charger as illustrated in Figure 1 for batteries used in commercial electric vehicles, such as electric rickshaw or e-rickshaw, in public transport sector is disclosed. This electronic device ensures that batteries are optimally charged every time after a discharge, through its in-built intelligence and unique charging profile, irrespective of the previous depth of discharge. Thus, it eliminates the possibility of any abuse in the form of overcharge or undercharge. This enhances the useful service life of the battery and also, empowers the battery to maximize the mileage of the e-rickshaw or the electric vehicle. It also has a provision of giving equalizing charge at regular interval to reduce/remove the imbalances among the different batteries which might develop over a period of use. This facility also helps to improve the battery life and performance.

[0041] The visual indications and in-built protections are illustrated in Figure 2. The AC out of range LED is lit when AC voltage drops below 160V and goes above 280V, this LED starts glowing. During this condition the charging will be OFF and resumes automatically when AC voltage comes back within the allowable range. This feature protects the charger from any possible damage and also ensures charging of the battery without any manual intervention when power comes back within permitted range. The MAINS ON LED is lit when the battery is on charge. The 40% SOC LED is lit when battery is 40% charged. The 80% SOC LED is lit when battery is 80% charged. The 100% SOC LED is lit when battery is 100% charged. The Equalizing Charge LED is lit when end user presses the push button of Equalize Charge in the charger. This button has to be pressed after a fixed interval of time as specified by the battery manufacturer. On pressing this button, the batteries will start charging and through its intelligent algorithm brings the batteries in equal state of charge. This will also ensure longer life and better performance. The Battery Service LED is lit when the battery health is alarming and requires battery health check-up at authorized service centre.

[0042] A Reverse Polarity Protection with auto recovery feature is built of the charger so that if the positive and negative polarity of the terminals is reversed between Charger and Battery, then charging will not start. This saves both charger and battery from being damaged. When connected back with correct polarity, the charging starts. The Input Fuse Protection ensures that during any fault condition, charger input fuse blows off to protect the battery. The Input Surge Protection ensures that the charger will be protected against inrush surge current at the input line. The Input under and over voltage shut down with auto recovery ensures that when AC supply goes beyond the specified range (specified range: 160 to 280 V AC), then the charging will stop. The charging resumes as soon as supply voltage comes back within the specified range from its last charging state. The Power ON Switch is used for switching ON the charging while the Equalize button initializes the equalize charge.

[0043] The method of energizing an energy source of a rickshaw comprises the steps of sensing, by a charger, polarity and input voltage of the energy source; energizing, by the charger, the energy source at a constant current; monitoring, by the charger, voltage of the energy source; determining, by the charger, whether voltage of the energy source is steady within a specified time period; wherein when voltage of the energy source is steady within a specified time period, voltage of the energy source remains constant and the current tapers to down to lower level; and wherein when voltage of the energy source is not steady within the specified time period, the energy source is energized at constant current of lower level; and applying equalizing charge to the energy source at periodic intervals; wherein when equalizing charge is applied, the energy source is energized at constant current for specified time; and wherein when equalizing charge is not applied, the energy source is energized at a constant voltage for total charging duration to remain fixed.

[0044] Figure 3 illustrates a block diagram of the battery charger with its in-built intelligence of charging characteristics and robust electronic design that keeps the battery in healthy condition for longer life and better performance. It comprises of a cabinet housing control transformer, control PCB, Power PCB, cooling fan and input fuse. It also comprises an input power on switch, multiple LED indicators and an Equalize button.

[0045] The cabinet is a metallic housing that holds the components of the charger and ensures proper dissipation of heat through its unique design to enhance trouble-free service life of the charger. The design of the metal cabinet makes it compact, lighter in weight and gives it a smart look.

[0046] The control transformer is used for supplying power to the Control PCB. This transformer steps down the AC mains voltage to desired level and acts as power supply for the control PCB to function. Any variation in amplitude at AC input side is monitored by the control PCB through auxiliary winding of the control transformer.

[0047] The control PCB controls the operation of the charging apparatus. An intelligent charging algorithm is pre-programmed within a microcontroller in the PCB. The microcontroller in the Control PCB receives feedback and sends control signals to various sections in the Control PCB and Power PCB for proper functioning of entire system This way it communicates with the Power PCB. The design of PCB and usage of various electronic components in the PCB makes it robust which gives protection to different electrical threats in the charger. It also senses, controls and gives protection to the equipment if there are any abnormal variation in voltage at input side. When AC supply goes beyond the specified range (specified range: 160 to 280 V AC), then the charging will be stopped automatically. The charging resumes from its last charging state as soon as the supply voltage comes within the specified range. The Control PCB also drives the cooling fan and LEDs. The Control PCB consists of following main sections:

a) Auxiliary power supply section: This section takes power from control transformer as input and regulates the voltage to desired level through various components in the PCB. It keeps the control circuit energized.

b) Microcontroller: This is a small computer on a single integrated circuit. This is the main part of Control PCB in which the intelligent charging algorithm is pre-programmed. This microcontroller receives feedback and sends control signals to various sections in the Control PCB and Power PCB for proper functioning of entire system.

c) MOSFET triggering and control: After receiving control signal from Microcontroller, this section modulates the control signal and generates the triggering pulse for the switching device i.e. MOSFETS which are placed on the Power PCB through a pulse transformer. The pulse transformer is designed specially by CPSSL in such a way that proper galvanic isolation is achieved between the Control and Power PCB.

d) AC Sensing circuit: This circuit on the Control PCB senses the AC voltage through the control transformer and various components. Then this signal is fed to the microcontroller. It senses, controls and gives protection to the equipment if there are any abnormal variation in voltage at input side. When the AC voltage is out of range as per specified limits, then the microcontroller generates the signal to shut down the charging. When AC voltage comes back within the allowable range (specified range: 160 to 280 V AC), the charger resumes automatically from its last condition. This feature protects the charger from any possible damage due to abnormal value of AC voltage and also ensures charging of the battery without any manual intervention when power comes back within permitted range.

e) Feedback and communication circuit: This circuit is the bridge between Control PCB and Power PCB for communication. It receives feedback signals of output DC voltage and current from Power PCB. It sends the control signals from control PCB to Power PCB.

f) LED and Fan driver circuit: The microcontroller generates signals for different LED indications such as AC out of range, %SOC, Equalize charge, Battery service. The cooling fan is also operated through this driver circuit. This circuit provides power to the fan to operate for the purpose of heat dissipation.

g) Equalize charge circuit: This circuit enhances the battery life by reducing or removing the imbalances among the different batteries which might develop over a period of use. A push button initiates the equalize charge after a fixed interval of time. Once this button is pressed by the user, then a signal reaches to the microcontroller. The microcontroller senses the signal and holds the same until the completion of normal charging cycle. After the completion of normal charging cycle, the equalization mode will actuate automatically.

[0048] The power PCB employs the technology of Switch-Mode Power Supply (SMPS) to transfer power from AC mains source to DC loads (battery) while converting voltage and current characteristics. The switching regulators i.e., MOSFETS used in the PCB continually switches between low-dissipation, full-on and full-off states, and spends very little time in the high dissipation transitions, which minimizes wastage of energy. It generates a regulated voltage at the output with less dissipation of power unlike Linear Power Supply. This higher power conversion efficiency is an important advantage of a switched-mode power supply. Switched-mode power supplies may also be substantially smaller and lighter than a linear supply due to the smaller transformer size and weight. Significantly, the Power PCB provides protection against inrush surge current at the input line which may cause damage to the equipment. Switching regulators provide higher efficiency, smaller size or lighter weight. The voltage of E-Rickshaw battery and output current of the charger is sensed through this PCB and thereby sends feedback to the Control PCB. It also provides protection from Reverse Polarity of batteries, if battery is connected with wrong polarity, then the charging will not start. After powering “On” the charger, a certain delay is present to sense the mains AC voltage and correct battery polarity. The charging will start after that delay and thereby and also drives the “Mains ON” LED.

[0049] The input power on switch is used to start the intelligent e-rickshaw charger for battery charging when mains AC supply is available. An input fuse provided at the input AC side for protection of the device against any fault at input side. A fan is used for thermal cooling and proper heat dissipation of the charger which helps to protect the components for getting overheated. The equalize button is to initialize Equalize Charge and automatically charge the batteries through its in-built intelligence. Seven LED indicators are used to denote Mains ON, AC Out of range, Battery charging state (40%, 80% and 100%), Equalize Charge, and Battery Service indications to the end user.

[0050] The charger for energizing an energy source of a rickshaw, as illustrated in Figure 3 comprises a transformer module, a control module, a power module, and a plurality of indicators. The transformer module is adapted to step down the input voltage and supply power to the control module adapted to produce control signals. The control module comprises an auxiliary power supply, a processor, a triggering and control module, a sensor module, a feedback module and an equalize charge module, where the auxiliary power supply is adapted to regulate the input power received from the transformer module. The processor is configured to receive feedback and send control signals to between the control module and power module for proper functioning of the charger. The triggering and control module is adapted to modulate the control signals and generate triggering pulses for the power module. The sensor module is configured to detect the voltage within the charger. The feedback module is adapted to receive feedback signals of output voltage and current from the power module, and send the control signals from control module to power module. The equalize charge module is adapted to supply equalizing charge at periodic intervals. The control module is adapted to sense voltage through the transformer module and the signal generated therein is fed to the processor to determine whether voltage is steady within a specified time period, where when voltage of the energy source is steady within a specified time period, voltage of the energy source remains constant and the current tapers to down to lower level, and when voltage of the energy source is not steady within the specified time period, the energy source is energized at constant current of lower level. The power module comprises a plurality of switching regulators adapted to continually switches between low-dissipation, full-on and full-off states, while spending little time in high dissipation transitions.

[0051] The charger also comprises an input power on switch, a cooling means to regulate the temperature of said charger, a driver module adapted to drive the cooling means and indicators and an overcurrent protection means, wherein said overcurrent protection means is a fuse. The indicators are LED indicators to denote Mains ON, AC Out of range, Battery charging state (40%, 80% and 100%), Equalize Charge, and Battery Service indications. The sensor module is adapted to control and protect the charger during any abnormal variation in voltage.

[0052] The intelligent e-rickshaw charger is connected to the battery bank with correct polarity and connected to the AC mains input plug of the charger to AC input socket of specified rating of 220V AC. As the charging beings and the charging current increases slowly with its in-built soft start feature. The charging current reaches to its maximum limit of 12A DC. The charger follows its in-built intelligence and unique charging profile, irrespective of the previous depth of discharge and thereby eliminates the possibility of any abuse in the form of overcharge or undercharge. This enhances the useful service life of the battery and also, empowers the battery to maximize the mileage of the e-rickshaw or the electric vehicle.

[0053] The method of charging this battery benefits end user by providing hassle free operation and better mileage from the E-Rickshaw. It also monitors the state of charge of the battery, has a provision for equalizing charge of the battery and prompts the end user to take corrective action in advance to avoid any pre-mature and sudden failure. The method as illustrated in the flow-chart of Figure 4.

[0054] Once the charger is switched on after connecting the charger with the battery bank, then the unique design of the charger checks for correct battery polarity and availability of single phase AC input supply. If the battery is connected with correct polarity and AC voltage is within the permissible range, then charging will be started automatically after a specified delay. If the AC mains voltage is out of range, then charger shuts down and recovers automatically when AC voltage returns within the permissible range. The microcontroller in the Control PCB senses the AC voltage and battery polarity throughout the charging cycle. The charging current increases slowly with its in-built soft start feature and reach its maximum limit of 12A DC.

[0055] The charger follows its in-built intelligence and unique charging profile, irrespective of the previous depth of discharge of the battery and thereby eliminates the possibility of any abuse in the form of overcharge or undercharge. This enhances the useful service life of the battery and also empowers the battery to maximize the mileage of the E-rickshaw.

[0056] E-Rickshaw charger starts charging at constant current of 11-12A up to a predefined voltage. There is a certain duration range to reach to that predefined voltage. The duration to reach the predefined voltage is detected by the charger to determine the state of charge of the battery automatically and with its own intelligence it decides next charging schedule which is required for the battery. If the duration to reach the predefined voltage is below or above the duration range as stated above, then system will automatically jump to the last step of constant voltage charging which is explained below.

[0057] When battery reaches to that specific voltage within the duration range as stated above, then the system starts charging at constant voltage till current drops to certain value. The system then starts charging at that dropped current constantly for certain duration. This charging period depends on the duration which the charger takes while charging at 11-12A constantly.

[0058] After the previous step, the system charges the battery at a constant voltage (Float Mode) so that the total duration of charging remains fixed. If the duration of charging as mentioned in first charging step is greater than certain hours, then “Battery Service” LED will start glowing. This will help user to take corrective action in advance for any failure of battery which may happen in future. After completion of the predefined charging duration, the charging will be automatically stopped if the Equalize Push Button is not pressed.

[0059] Equalize push button is present in the charger to provide equalization charge for duration as specified at certain current. The provision of giving equalizing charge at regular interval reduces/removes the imbalances among the different batteries which might develop over a period of use. This facility also helps to improve the battery life.

[0060] To activate the equalize charging, the push button should be pressed during the first step as mentioned above, then Equalize charge will start after completion of normal charging cycle i.e. “Float Mode” will be bypassed. After the equalize charge, the charger will automatically shut down.

[0061] In case of power interruption takes place during charging, the charging stage will be kept in charger memory and on resumption of power, charging will start or continue from the point it got interrupted. This will be maintained as long as the battery is connected to the charger. Once the battery is disconnected from charger, charging regime will become reset and start again from the initial charging step.

[0062] Some of the important uses, advantages and applications of the present invention, considered to be noteworthy are mentioned below:

1. In-built intelligence and smart charging profile ensures optimal charging irrespective of the previous depth of discharge thereby protecting the battery from any over-charge or under charge. This ensures maximum mileage and highest uptime.
2. User gets more back-up and better mileage from the batteries.
3. Unique charging profile eliminates the possibility of any charging abuse and gives longer healthy life of batteries.
4. Equalizing charging facility to remove the imbalances within the battery to increase battery life. Increases the battery life and improves performance.
5. Compact and robust design which reduces chances of failure.
6. Automatic charging operation without any manual intervention.
7. Pre-failure indication of battery helps the user to take corrective action in advance.
8. Automatic termination of charging removes possibilities of overcharging and enhances battery life.
9. Different in-built protections in the equipment.
10. Easy to handle and easy to maintain and thereby user friendly.

[0063] Although an intelligent, simple, portable, light weight and economic method and apparatus for intelligent charging of electric rickshaw batteries has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methods, it is to be understood that the embodiments disclosed in the above section are not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods or devices described. Rather, the specific features are disclosed as examples of implementations of the e-rickshaw charger.

[0064] The methodology and techniques described hereinabove with respect to the aforesaid embodiments for e-rickshaw charger can be performed using a machine or other computing device or system used for intelligent charging of batteries within which a set of instructions, when executed, may cause the machine or device or system to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed above.

[0065] The apparatus may include a machine-readable medium which is stored in a memory as one or more sets of instructions (e.g., software) embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein, including those methods illustrated above. The instructions may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory, the static memory, and/or within the microcontroller during execution thereof by the apparatus.

[0066] The illustrations of methods described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the method steps of various embodiments. Many other method steps will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. Other changes in the method steps and their sequence of occurrence may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that the logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Figures are also merely representational and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions thereof may be exaggerated, while others may be minimized. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.
,CLAIMS:1. A method of energizing an energy source of a rickshaw, said method comprising the steps of:
sensing, by a charger, polarity and input voltage of the energy source;
energizing, by the charger, the energy source at a constant current;
monitoring, by the charger, voltage of the energy source;
determining, by the charger, whether voltage of the energy source is steady within a specified time period;
wherein when voltage of the energy source is steady within a specified time period, voltage of the energy source remains constant and the current tapers to down to lower level; and
wherein when voltage of the energy source is not steady within the specified time period, the energy source is energized at constant current of lower level; and
applying equalizing charge to the energy source at periodic intervals;
wherein when equalizing charge is applied, the energy source is energized at constant current for specified time; and
wherein when equalizing charge is not applied, the energy source is energized at a constant voltage for total charging duration to remain fixed.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the input voltage ranges from about 160 V to 280V AC.

3. A charger for energizing an energy source of a rickshaw, said charger comprising:
a transformer module, a control module, a power module, and a plurality of indicators;
said transformer module is adapted to step down the input voltage and supply power to the control module adapted to produce control signals;
said control module comprises:
an auxiliary power supply, a processor, a triggering and control module, a sensor module, a feedback module and an equalize charge module,
wherein the auxiliary power supply is adapted to regulate the input power received from the transformer module;
wherein the processor is configured to receive feedback and send control signals to between the control module and Power module for proper functioning of the charger;
wherein the triggering and control module is adapted to modulate the control signals and generate triggering pulses for the power module;
wherein the sensor module is configured to detect the voltage within the charger;
wherein the feedback module is adapted to receive feedback signals of output voltage and current from the power module, and send the control signals from control module to power module;
wherein the equalize charge module is adapted to supply equalizing charge at periodic intervals;
wherein the control module is adapted to sense voltage through the transformer module and the signal generated therein is fed to the processor to determine whether voltage is steady within a specified time period,
wherein when voltage of the energy source is steady within a specified time period, voltage of the energy source remains constant and the current tapers to down to lower level; and
wherein when voltage of the energy source is not steady within the specified time period, the energy source is energized at constant current of lower level; and
said power module comprises a plurality of switching regulators adapted to continually switches between low-dissipation, full-on and full-off states, while spending little time in high dissipation transitions.

4. The charger as claimed in claim 1, further comprising:
an input power on switch;
a cooling means to regulate the temperature of said charger; and
an overcurrent protection means, wherein said overcurrent protection means is a fuse.

5. The charger as claimed in claim 1, said indicators are LED indicators to denote Mains ON, AC Out of range, Battery charging state (40%, 80% and 100%), Equalize Charge, and Battery Service indications.

6. The charger as claimed in claim 4, further comprising a driver module adapted to drive the cooling means and indicators.

7. The charger as claimed in claim 4, wherein the sensor module is adapted to control and protect the charger during any abnormal variation in voltage.

8. The charger as claimed in claim 4, wherein when equalizing charge is applied, the energy source is energized at constant current for specified time; and when equalizing charge is not applied, the energy source is energized at a constant voltage for total charging duration to remain fixed.

9. The charger as claimed in claim 1, wherein when abnormal voltage is detected, the processor generates a signal to stop the energizing and when the voltage is within the range, the charger resumes energizing the energy source.

10. The charger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the equalize charge module comprises an input means to initiate the equalize charge; wherein when equalizing charge is applied, the energy source is energized at constant current for specified time; and wherein when equalizing charge is not applied, the energy source is energized at a constant voltage for total charging duration to remain fixed.