Dual-Interface Charge Adapter for Cordless-Corded Tool Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power tool systems lack a charge adapter design that allows users to connect both a power adapter and a battery pack simultaneously, limiting flexibility and efficiency in extended use scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A charge adapter with two interfaces, one for engagement with a battery and another for engagement with a power adapter, allowing simultaneous connection and utilization of both power sources, while eliminating the need for duplicate power supplies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a power adapter is used for extended uninterrupted use, then the ability to utilize the same tools for extended periods is improved, but the convenience of cordless tool operation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into separate functional components: a battery pack for cordless operation, a power adapter for corded operation, and a charge adapter that enables both to coexist. This segmentation allows users to switch between modes without compromising either cordless convenience or extended uninterrupted use capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts between cordless and corded modes through the charge adapter, which allows the battery to be charged while connected to the power adapter. This dynamic capability enables seamless transition between operating modes, maintaining convenience while enabling extended use.
2Productivity
If a battery pack is discharged at a higher rate than another substitute battery pack can be recharged, then the productivity during use is improved, but the availability of charged batteries is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The charge adapter merges the functionality of a battery charger and power adapter into a single device. This combination allows the battery to be recharged at high rates directly from the power adapter without needing a separate charger, ensuring battery availability is maintained even during high-rate discharge operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The charge adapter acts as an intermediary between the power adapter and battery, enabling controlled high-rate charging. This mediator ensures that the battery can accept high discharge rates during use while being recharged at appropriate rates when connected to the power adapter through the charge adapter.
3Power
If a power adapter with a power supply is used, then the power output capability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charge adapter is designed with universal functionality to work with both battery packs and power adapters. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for duplicate power supplies, reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining adequate power output capability for both charging and corded operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply functionality is extracted from the charge adapter itself and instead provided by the separate power adapter. This extraction allows the charge adapter to focus on interface and control functions, reducing its complexity while the external power adapter provides the necessary power output capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power supplies are used for different functions, then the versatility of the system is improved, but the logistical complexities and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charge adapter provides universal functionality by accepting both battery packs and power adapters as inputs. This design consolidates multiple functions into a single device, reducing logistical complexities and costs while maintaining system versatility for both cordless and corded operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The charge adapter is designed to handle more than one function (charging batteries and accepting power from power adapters), but only performs the specific function needed in each situation. This partial action approach maintains versatility without requiring all features to be actively managed, reducing logistical complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Charge adapters for use with batteries and AC power adapters are described. Also described are systems and related methods using the charge adapters and particularly tool systems with detachable batteries.