Bidirectional Inductive Charging for Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices require separate power supplies for charging, which can be cumbersome to use, store, and transport, despite having standardized connectors and cables.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of electronic devices with inductive coils that can wirelessly transfer power between each other, allowing for the charging of one device's battery using another device, potentially eliminating the need for multiple power cords.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate power supplies are used for each device, then each device can be charged independently, but the number of power supplies increases making them burdensome to use, store, and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power supply functions into a single device by enabling bidirectional wireless power transfer between electronic devices. Each device contains both transmitting and receiving inductive coils, allowing any device to act as a power source or charger for others, eliminating the need for multiple separate power supplies while maintaining independent charging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing electronic devices with dual capabilities: they can both receive power wirelessly and transmit power wirelessly to other devices. This universal design allows any device to serve multiple purposes - as a consumer of power, a provider of power, or both simultaneously - replacing the need for dedicated power supplies for each device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standardized connectors and cables are used, then compatibility between devices is improved, but separate power supplies are still required for each device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connector and cable system with a wireless electromagnetic field-based power transfer system. By using inductive coupling between transmitting and receiving coils, the invention eliminates the need for physical connectors and cables while also eliminating the need for separate power supplies, as devices can transfer power directly to each other wirelessly.
3Productivity
If multiple power cords are used to charge multiple devices, then all devices can be charged simultaneously, but the complexity of managing multiple power cords increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling electronic devices to charge each other directly through wireless power transfer. Devices automatically establish power transfer connections with nearby devices that need charging, eliminating the need for manual plugging and unplugging of multiple power cords. The system self-manages power distribution among devices without user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses wireless electromagnetic fields as an intermediary medium to transfer power between devices. Instead of requiring direct physical connection through power cords, the inductive coupling creates a wireless bridge that allows power to flow between devices automatically, simplifying the charging process and eliminating cord management complexity.
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
This solution enables efficient and convenient charging of multiple devices using a single power source, reducing the need for multiple power supplies and simplifying the charging process.
Implementation Method 1
The electronic devices may include inductive coils which may be configured to be in electrical communication with inductive coils of external electronic devices. The inductive coils of the electronic devices capable of transmitting power to external electronic devices
Implementation Method 2
The wireless power transfer may be used to charge the battery of the first and/or second electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device and methods for inductively charging an electronic device using another external electronic device. The electronic device may include an enclosure, a battery positioned within the enclosure, and an inductive coil coupled to the battery. The inductive coil may have two or more operational modes, including a power receiving operational mode for wirelessly receiving power and a power transmitting operational mode for wirelessly transmitting power. The electronic device may also have a controller coupled to the inductive coil for selecting one of the operational modes.