Battery Charger with Integrated LED Charge Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery chargers lack a visible indicator for the state of charge of multiple battery packs, making it difficult for users to determine the charge level and potential faults, especially when charging different types of power tools with varying voltage requirements.
Innovation Solution
A battery charger with an integrated state of charge indicator on its visible outer surface, utilizing a series of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that illuminate or flash to indicate the charge level and fault conditions of connected battery packs, allowing users to monitor the charge status and potential issues such as overheating or undercharging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a battery charger is designed to accommodate multiple types of battery packs, then the adaptability of the charger is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for universal connectors and multiple charging circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal charging system with a single connector that can accommodate multiple battery pack types (18V, 36V, 54V) through automatic voltage detection and adaptive charging circuits. The charger housing is designed to accept different battery configurations, and the control system automatically adjusts charging parameters based on the detected battery type, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated charging ports.
2Ease of operation
If no visible charge indicator is provided on the charger, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users cannot easily determine the charge status of battery packs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates LED indicators that change color to indicate different charge states and operational status. The LED charge indicator displays green when the battery is fully charged, yellow when partially charged, and red when charging is complete or there is a fault condition. This visual feedback system provides intuitive information to users without requiring complex displays or interfaces.
3Reliability
If fault detection capabilities are added to the charger, then the reliability of battery charging is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensing and control circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a comprehensive feedback system with LED indicators that provide real-time information about charging status and fault conditions. The fault indicator LED alerts users to problems such as overheating, connection issues, or battery failures. The control system continuously monitors charging parameters and provides feedback through the indicator lights, enabling users to detect and respond to faults promptly.
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
Enables users to visually assess the charge level and fault conditions of battery packs, ensuring sufficient charge for power tools and preventing damage from improper charging, thereby enhancing user convenience and tool reliability.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a series of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that illuminate or flash to indicate the charge level and fault conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A battery charger having an integrated battery charge indicator that is readily visible when a battery pack is connected for charging. The battery charge indicator is on a visible outer surface of the housing of the battery charger to indicate a state of charge of the battery pack. The indicator may include a series of light emitting diodes with one LED that is illuminated when the battery pack is charging and will flash if something is wrong with the battery pack. The housing can preferably accommodate more than one configuration of battery packs with the indicator being visible when various battery packs are attached for recharging.