Battery Capacity Estimation for Remaining Workflow Cycles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of battery-powered mobile devices struggle to translate remaining battery capacity into the number of workflow cycles that can be completed, leading to unexpected recharging or power loss during tasks, which reduces efficiency and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A method to estimate the number of workflow cycles that can be executed based on the remaining battery capacity by calculating a battery usage estimate from the difference between initial and final battery capacities during a workflow cycle, and using this estimate to determine the number of cycles that can be completed with the available battery power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If users rely on fuel gauge information to monitor battery status, then they can know the remaining battery capacity, but they cannot translate it into the number of workflow cycles that can be completed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary calculation layer that converts fuel gauge readings into workflow cycle estimates. The system calculates battery usage per workflow cycle and uses this as a mediator to translate remaining battery capacity into the number of completeable workflow cycles, making the information actionable for users
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically monitoring battery capacity changes during workflow execution, calculating usage patterns, and generating predictions without requiring manual user input. The fuel gauge data is automatically processed to provide workflow cycle estimates
2Productivity
If users continue working without monitoring battery capacity translation, then they maintain workflow continuity, but they risk unexpected power loss or recharging needs
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by calculating and displaying the number of remaining workflow cycles before power depletion occurs. This advance information allows users to plan recharging or battery changes proactively, preventing unexpected interruptions to workflow
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring battery capacity and comparing it against calculated usage rates. This feedback loop provides real-time updates on remaining workflow cycles, allowing users to adjust their work patterns or schedule recharging to maintain both productivity and reliability
3Reliability
If users recharge or change batteries mid-shift, then they maintain power availability, but they reduce operational efficiency and increase costs
Solution Approach 1:
By providing advance notice of remaining workflow cycles, the system enables users to schedule battery recharging or changes at optimal times - preferably during natural workflow transitions or low-activity periods - thereby maintaining power availability while minimizing disruption to operational efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
Methods are provided for generating an estimated number of workflow cycles able to be executed with a remaining battery capacity of a battery in a device. A workflow cycle comprising a predefined series of tasks of a work application executed during a defined timeframe is defined. Beginning battery capacity is determined at start of work application execution. End battery capacity at completion of work application execution is determined. Battery usage estimate associated with work application is calculated from difference between beginning battery capacity and end battery capacity. The estimated number of workflow cycles able to be executed is based on the remaining battery capacity and the battery usage estimate.