Ancillary Power Adapter for Simultaneous Device Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power adapters often require multiple device-specific adapters and limited USB power output, leading to long recharge times for portable electronic devices, especially newer models that require higher power, and do not allow simultaneous charging of additional devices without interfering with the primary device's power supply.
Innovation Solution
A removably attachable ancillary adapter that splits AC power from existing adapters, providing additional power outlets, including a high-power USB port, without affecting the primary device's power supply, using an L-shaped design to secure onto standard power adapters and converting AC to DC for efficient charging of multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple device-specific adapters are used to charge different portable electronic devices, then each device can be charged with its required power, but the user must carry multiple adapters and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter is designed with multiple output ports including USB ports, AC outlets, and DC ports, allowing a single adapter to charge multiple types of devices simultaneously. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for users to carry multiple device-specific adapters while maintaining compatibility with various portable electronic devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple power output functions into a single integrated adapter unit. By merging USB power output, AC power output, and DC power output into one device, the system reduces the number of separate adapters needed while providing versatile charging capabilities for different device types.
2Ease of operation
If USB power output is used to charge portable electronic devices, then data exchange and power supply are integrated, but the power supplied is restricted leading to long recharge times for high-power devices
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter provides multiple independent power output paths: USB ports for low-power devices, AC outlets for high-power devices, and DC ports for intermediate power needs. This segmentation allows users to select the appropriate power level for each device, enabling high-power devices to charge at full speed while maintaining the convenience of USB connectivity for smaller devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter acts as an intermediary between the wall power source and various devices by providing multiple output types. It converts and distributes power through different interfaces (USB, AC, DC) with appropriate power levels, mediating between the high-power wall outlet and devices with varying power requirements, thus eliminating the power limitation of direct USB charging.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single power adapter provides multiple output types, then versatility is improved, but the adapter size becomes large and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter design nests multiple output ports and functional components within a compact housing. By arranging USB ports, AC outlets, and DC ports in a space-efficient nested configuration, the adapter provides multiple output types without becoming excessively large or cumbersome, allowing it to be easily carried in pockets or bags.
4Adaptability or versatility
If USB ports on a laptop are used to charge additional devices, then power sharing is enabled, but the recharge time increases and other USB functions are preempted
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter extracts the power sharing function from the laptop's USB ports by providing dedicated power output ports on the adapter itself. This allows devices to be charged directly from the wall-powered adapter rather than drawing power through the laptop's limited USB ports, significantly reducing recharge times while preserving the laptop's USB ports for data exchange and other functions.
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
Enables simultaneous and efficient charging of multiple devices, including high-power devices like tablets and smartphones, from a single power source without using the primary device's USB ports, reducing recharge times and accommodating various power adapter types.
Implementation Method 1
The power adapter receives power from an external power source supplying alternating current (AC) voltage, and converts it to direct current (DC) voltage for use by the device
Data Source
AI summary
A device that removably attaches to existing power supplies or adapters to provide power to one or more additional electronic devices, while not interfering or affecting the power being supplied to the primary or main electronic device by the power supply or adapter. The adapters, interfaces, connectors, cords and other components described herein may be used with any applicable electronic device, including portable electronic devices. In one embodiment, the device attaches to and provides power to a laptop computer power adapter, while simultaneously providing power to a USB port or interface.