Charging Case with Built-in USB Cable

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional removable USB cables for charging wireless earbuds require multiple steps, making the charging process cumbersome and inconvenient for users.

Innovation Solution

A charging case with a built-in non-detachable USB cable, featuring a reversible Type-A connector and integrated power management circuitry, simplifies the charging process by eliminating the need to distinguish between USB types and orientations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a removable USB cable is provided for charging the charging case, then the charging case can be charged, but the user must perform multiple steps including checking cable orientation and inserting connectors correctly

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveCharging operation simplicityVSAvoidCharging procedure steps

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the USB cable with the charging case by integrating it into the lid structure. The cable is built into the lid with the connector exposed on the outer surface, eliminating the need for a separate removable cable and reducing the number of charging steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The built-in cable design makes the charging case self-sufficient for charging operations. The integrated cable eliminates the need for users to handle separate cables, reducing operational complexity and making the device more user-friendly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional removable USB cable is used, then it can charge both smartphones and charging cases, but users must distinguish between Type-A and Micro-B connectors and their orientations

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveCable compatibilityVSAvoidConnector identification and insertion

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different connector types to specific locations: the charging case uses a Micro-B connector on the built-in cable for charging the case itself, while the earbuds use a Micro-USB connector. This localized differentiation eliminates confusion about which connector to use where.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring users to adapt the cable to different devices, the invention inverts the approach by building the cable into the charging case lid, making the case the active charging element that can charge both itself and the earbuds without requiring cable manipulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS11051095B2Charging case with a built-in USB cable

Publication Date: 2021.06.29 PEAG LLC

AI summary

A charging case for charging and storing a pair of earbuds is provided. The charging case comprises: a case body having an upper section and a lower section, the lower section housing at least a battery and a PCB, the upper section having a pair of sockets to accommodate the pair of earbuds, respectively; and a USB cable comprising a distal end portion including a USB connector, a cable body housing electrical wires coupled to the USB connector, and a proximal end portion non-removably attached to the case body. The electrical wires are guided through the housing wall into an inner space of the case body where end portions of the electrical wires are soldered onto the PCB. A recessed area is formed on the exterior surface of the case body to accommodate the attached USB cable while not in use.