C-Shaped Battery Pack Nesting for Docking Station Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designing portable electronic devices to accommodate additional batteries without increasing their size is challenging, as it often requires compromising on battery life or device size.
Innovation Solution
A docking station and battery pack system that allows for the integration of an additional battery pack without increasing the device's exterior dimensions, using a C-shaped battery pack that defines a volume to accommodate the docking station's protruding member, and a charge/discharge logic that prioritizes battery usage and charging based on installed packs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If an additional battery pack is integrated into the portable computer, then battery life is extended, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing a first battery pack inside a volume defined by a second battery pack. The second battery pack has a C-shaped configuration that creates an internal cavity, allowing the first battery pack to be nested within this space. This nested arrangement enables dual battery functionality while maintaining a compact form factor, as the batteries share the same external envelope rather than requiring separate volumes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes dimensional optimization by configuring the second battery pack in a C-shape that defines a three-dimensional volume. This spatial arrangement allows the first battery pack to be positioned within the volume created by the second battery pack's geometry. The C-shaped configuration optimizes space utilization in three dimensions, enabling extended battery life without increasing the device's external dimensions.
2Quantity of substance
If a C-shaped battery pack is used to define internal volume, then additional battery capacity is accommodated, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the battery system into two separate battery packs instead of using a single integrated battery. The second battery pack is segmented into a C-shaped configuration that defines an internal volume, while the first battery pack is a separate component that fits within this volume. This segmentation allows for standardized battery components to be used, simplifying manufacturing while achieving increased total battery capacity.
3Duration of action of moving object
If multiple battery packs are installed, then power management complexity increases, but battery life is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through a battery detection and control logic that monitors the state of multiple battery packs and automatically manages charge/discharge operations. The system detects which battery packs are installed and their charge levels, then dynamically controls charge/discharge switches to optimize power management. This automated feedback-based control reduces the perceived complexity for users while enabling extended battery life through intelligent power allocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service power management through battery detection and control logic that automatically determines charge and discharge priorities without user intervention. The system autonomously monitors battery states, controls charge/discharge switches, and manages power flow between multiple battery packs and the computer system. This self-managing approach handles the complexity internally while providing users with simplified operation and extended battery functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer comprises a computer chassis, a communication connector provided on a surface of the chassis to mate the computer with a docking station, and first and second battery packs. The first battery pack is adapted to mate to the surface of the chassis. The first battery pack has a shape that defines a volume in which at least a portion of the docking station can be inserted to mate to the communication connector. Further, the first battery pack has a first battery pack connector. The second battery pack has a shape that corresponds to the volume defined by the first battery pack's shape. The second battery pack has a second battery connector that mates to the first battery connector when the second battery pack is mated to the first battery pack.