Battery Management for POS Terminals Using Segmented Power Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Battery-run information processors, such as POS and KIOSK terminals, face challenges in providing continuous power to both the processor unit and peripheral devices when external power sources are unavailable, as existing solutions either deplete power quickly or require battery disengagement for replacement.
Innovation Solution
An information processor with a battery management system that utilizes multiple batteries, where a battery control unit prioritizes power distribution to ensure the main control unit receives power from batteries with sufficient voltage, while giving priority to peripheral devices when necessary, using a first and second power supply circuit to manage power from different batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple batteries are connected to supply power to both the information processor terminal and connected equipment, then the power supply capacity is improved, but the operation duration decreases when batteries start to run down
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into two independent circuits: a first power supply circuit dedicated to the information processor terminal and a second power supply circuit dedicated to connected equipment. Each circuit can independently select and manage its own batteries, allowing the terminal to prioritize power to itself while still supporting peripheral devices, thereby extending overall operation duration without sacrificing power capacity.
2Power
If multiple batteries are connected to increase power capacity, then the power supply to connected equipment is improved, but battery replacement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the power supply into separate circuits for the terminal and connected equipment, each with its own battery selection logic, the system allows independent battery management. This segmentation simplifies replacement procedures as batteries can be managed and replaced in smaller groups rather than requiring complete system disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery control unit automatically detects battery voltage levels and performs switching operations without user intervention. The system monitors battery states and autonomously manages power distribution and battery replacement timing, reducing the complexity of manual battery management for the user.
3Adaptability or versatility
If batteries are used to power both the information processor terminal and connected equipment, then the versatility of battery-run operation is improved, but the reliability decreases when batteries lose power
Solution Approach 1:
The dual-circuit power supply architecture isolates the terminal's power supply from connected equipment's power supply. When batteries begin to deplete, the terminal can prioritize its own power needs through the first circuit while the second circuit manages equipment power independently. This segmentation ensures the terminal maintains reliable operation even when overall battery capacity is declining, as the control logic can reallocate power dynamically.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an information processor is equipped with an information processor terminal that contains a main control unit that processes information, an IO control unit that supplies electrical power to connected equipment (peripheral devices) and that controls communications, and a power supply unit that supplies electrical power, as well as a first switching circuit that connects a plurality of batteries and supplies electrical power to the main control unit, a second switching circuit that connects a plurality of batteries and supplies electrical power to the IO control unit, and a battery unit that contains a battery control part that controls the first switching circuit and the second switching circuit.