Adaptive Power Control for Inductive Charging Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices face inefficiencies in charging due to separate power supplies and inductive charging systems that reduce battery life and require frequent recharging, while traditional charging methods can be unsafe and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive power control system using a wireless signal receiver, alternating current power supply, and current monitor to adjust the operating frequency of a power-transmitting inductor based on current load and feedback signals from the device, optimizing power transfer and conserving battery life by disconnecting circuits from ground when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If inductive charging system is implemented in portable device, then charging convenience is improved, but battery life is reduced due to extra circuitry and load when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the ground connection from the inductive charging circuit when not in use, effectively removing the parasitic load path. By controlling the ground connection switch to disconnect the charging circuitry from ground when no device is present, the system eliminates the continuous power drain that would otherwise occur through the charging circuit components, thereby preserving battery life while maintaining charging convenience when needed.
2Power
If separate power supplies are used for different devices, then power output requirements are met, but portability benefits are limited due to burden of storing and transporting multiple supplies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal inductive charging surface that can charge multiple different portable devices simultaneously or sequentially. The system detects the presence and power requirements of various devices and automatically adjusts its output accordingly, providing a single multi-functional charging solution that replaces the need for multiple device-specific power supplies, thereby maintaining appropriate power output while significantly improving portability.
3Power
If traditional charging cords are used, then power delivery is achieved, but safety risks increase due to distraction and tripping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connection system (physical charging cords that require plugging and create tripping hazards) with an inductive electromagnetic coupling system. Power is transferred wirelessly through electromagnetic fields between the charging surface and the portable device, eliminating the need for physical cord connections, thereby maintaining effective power delivery while removing safety risks associated with cord-related distractions and tripping hazards.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables efficient power delivery to portable devices without depleting their batteries, enhances safety by reducing the need for separate power supplies, and minimizes the risk of accidents associated with traditional charging methods.
Implementation Method 1
An inductive charging system may include an inductive charging station to transmit power and a portable electronic device to receive power
Implementation Method 2
The current monitor may be configured to determine the current load of the power-transmitting inductor
Data Source
AI summary
Power management and power transfer systems within the transmit and receive portions of an inductive charging system. An inductive charging system may include an inductive charging station to transmit power and a portable electronic device to receive power. Embodiments may take the form of power transfer systems within an inductive charging station including load-based transmit frequency adjustments. Embodiments may also take the form of power management systems within portable electronic devices which conserve power by disconnecting circuits from ground when those circuits are in an idle state.