Battery Charger With Removable Booster Pack and Remote Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery charging and testing systems lack tactile and visual feedback in user interfaces, are often immobile and unsightly, and are limited by the need for a fixed AC power source, making them inconvenient for remote use and increased costs when integrating a rechargeable battery.
Innovation Solution
A battery testing/charging system with a remote-control user interface and a removable booster pack that provides power, allowing the system to be used independently of a fixed power supply, with a switch offering tactile feedback and a cart-mounted configuration for ergonomic and aesthetic benefits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If keypads or continuously rotatable knobs are used for user interface in software-driven devices, then the device can provide multiple functions, but the user loses tactile and visual feedback compared to mechanical switches
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into two separate components: a control panel with mechanical switches for user interaction, and a battery charger/unit for battery maintenance. This segmentation allows each component to have optimized controls - the control panel provides tactile feedback through mechanical switches while the charger handles software-driven functions.
Solution Approach 2:
A remote control panel acts as an intermediary between the user and the battery charger. The mechanical switches on the control panel provide tactile feedback, and this input is transmitted to the charger which executes the software-driven functions, thus mediating between the need for tactile feedback and multiple functions.
2Area of stationary object
If the control panel and battery charger are integrated into a single enclosure, then the device is compact, but the user needs to bend or stoop to access controls and the unit becomes immobile
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated unit is separated into two distinct components: a control panel that can be positioned at ergonomic height for easy access, and a battery charger that can be placed anywhere needed. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing each component to be optimally positioned without being constrained by a single enclosure.
3Ease of operation
If the entire unit is mounted to be more accessible, then control accessibility improves, but the unit becomes substantially immobile and potentially unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the control panel from the battery charger, the control panel can be mounted at an accessible, eye-level position for ease of operation, while the battery charger remains a portable unit that can be moved to different locations as needed. This segmentation provides both accessibility and mobility that a fixed mounted unit cannot achieve.
4Adaptability or versatility
If an internal rechargeable battery is integrated into the battery charger, then the system can operate without fixed AC power, but the cost of the component increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of integrating a battery into the charger, the booster pack is extracted as a separate, removable component. The booster pack can be detached and used independently to provide portable power when needed, while the main charger unit remains simple and cost-effective. This extraction avoids the cost penalty of integrating a battery while still providing operational independence.
5Adaptability or versatility
If a separate battery booster pack is used for remote locations, then the system can operate without fixed AC power, but the time necessary to diagnose the battery increases
Solution Approach 1:
The booster pack and battery charger are merged into a single integrated unit with a receptacle that accepts the booster pack. When the booster pack is inserted, it automatically connects to the charger's circuitry, allowing immediate power transfer without requiring separate setup or connection steps. This merging eliminates the time delay associated with using separate devices.
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 convenient, ergonomic, and aesthetically pleasing operation of battery testing/charging systems at remote locations without a fixed power source, reducing the need for internal batteries and enhancing usability with tactile feedback.
Implementation Method 1
an outlet configured to power the booster pack when the booster pack is connected to the outlet
Implementation Method 2
an execution unit capable of performing at least one battery-related function and receiving full or partial power from the booster pack
Data Source
AI summary
A battery testing/charging system includes an execution unit, such as a battery tester/charger, a receptacle configured to receive an external booster pack, and an outlet configured to power the booster pack when the booster pack is connected to the outlet. The receptacle removably receives the booster pack, such that the booster pack can be removed and separately carried when the execution unit is not required. The receptacle may be integrated with the execution unit. Alternatively, the execution unit may be mounted on a cart, and the receptacle integrated with the cart. The cart may also include an accessory storage tray and an output device bracket. The execution unit may receive partial or total power from the booster pack.