Accessory Device with Dual Power Interface for Charger Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In industries such as the cordless power tool sector, battery chargers are often left unused and wasteful when not charging removable battery packs, as they are typically designed to only charge battery packs and not provide power to accessories directly.
Innovation Solution
A device with a first interface to connect to a battery charger and a second interface to connect to a battery pack, along with a charger enable circuit and accessory components like fans, radios, or lights, which can receive power from either source, enabling the device to function independently of the charging status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the battery charger is designed to only charge battery packs, then the charging function is reliable and simple, but the charger remains unused and wasteful when no battery pack is present
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory device is designed with dual functionality: it can operate as a battery-powered accessory when connected to a battery pack, and as a wall-powered device when connected to a battery charger. The first interface connects to the battery charger while the second interface connects to the battery pack, allowing the accessory to universally accept power from either source and eliminating energy waste from unused chargers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the accessory is designed to work only with battery packs, then the power supply is simple, but the accessory cannot function when no battery pack is available
Solution Approach 1:
The power input system is segmented into two separate interfaces: a first interface for connecting to a battery charger and a second interface for connecting to a battery pack. This segmentation allows each interface to be optimized for its specific connection type while together they provide continuous operational availability. The accessory can switch between power sources based on what is available, maintaining functionality without requiring a single complex universal interface.
3Productivity
If the battery charger is left plugged in without a battery pack, then the charger is ready for immediate use, but electrical energy is consumed without productive output
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory device enables the battery charger to serve itself by providing a useful load. When the accessory is connected to the battery charger via the first interface, it draws power to operate its components (such as fan, radio, speaker, light, or power adapter), thereby converting the charger's idle power consumption into productive work and eliminating energy waste.
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a first interface configured to connect to a battery charger, a second interface configured to connect to a battery pack and one or more accessory components that define the device. For example, the device may be a fan, a radio, a power adapter, a speaker, a light or other type of device.