Battery Pack Microcontroller Voltage Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal battery packs face issues with selecting the correct output voltage, are prone to noise pick-up and errors due to sensitive feedback paths, and require multiple ac adapters for different power requirements, leading to user inconvenience and system reliability concerns.
Innovation Solution
A battery pack with a micro-controller that senses electrical signal characteristics from an external power source, enabling or disabling the output signal and controlling recharging based on these characteristics, and selecting between internal and external power sources to match the required voltage and current limits, using a system that includes a power source selector, battery management micro-controller, and converter elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable external dc plugs with predetermined resistor values are used to select output voltage, then a wide range of portable electronic devices can be supported, but users are more prone to selecting a wrong dc plug and additional reference plugs are required
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack automatically detects the external power source characteristics and configures its output parameters without user intervention. The microcontroller senses the electrical signal characteristics from the connected power source and autonomously sets the output voltage and current limits, eliminating the need for users to manually select correct plugs or reference components
Solution Approach 2:
The battery pack dynamically changes its output electrical parameters (voltage and current limits) based on the detected characteristics of the connected external power source. The system measures the input electrical signal characteristics and adjusts the output parameters accordingly, allowing seamless adaptation to different power sources without requiring multiple fixed-configuration plugs
2Adaptability or versatility
If the feedback path of the output dc-dc converter is extended through long output cables, then the battery pack can power various devices, but noise pick-up and errors increase impacting system reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the voltage selection function from the external dc plug and relocates it to the battery pack's internal microcontroller. By sensing the electrical characteristics directly at the input and making configuration decisions internally, the system eliminates the need for long feedback paths through external cables, thereby removing the source of noise pick-up while maintaining the ability to support various devices
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ac adapters are included for different power requirements, then the battery pack can work with various power sources, but users are required to carry multiple adapters
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack is designed with universal compatibility to work with a wide range of ac adapters and external power sources. The microcontroller-based detection system can identify and adapt to different power source characteristics, allowing a single battery pack design to replace multiple specialized adapters. The system measures electrical signal characteristics and automatically configures itself to work with the connected power source, eliminating the need for users to carry multiple adapters for different power requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A battery pack comprising a rechargeable power source element; an input member for connecting the battery pack to an external power source; an output member for connecting the battery pack to an external device for power supply to the external device a micro-controller for sensing at least one characteristic of an electrical signal from the external power source, and for controlling an output signal at the output member based on the characteristics of the electrical signal.