Charging Interface for Adaptive Battery Level Limiting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing techniques for managing device charging are cumbersome and inefficient, often requiring complex user interfaces and leading to unnecessary energy waste and battery degradation due to overcharging.

Innovation Solution

A method and interface that dynamically adjust charging levels based on set criteria, displaying a charge status indicator to inform users when charging will stop before reaching maximum capacity, thereby conserving energy and extending battery life.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing charging management techniques are used, then charging control is provided, but the user interface is complex and time-consuming requiring multiple key presses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging interface simplicityVSAvoidcharging management time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects charging conditions and adjusts charging parameters without requiring user input. The charging management module monitors battery status, device temperature, and power source characteristics, then autonomously selects appropriate charging modes and adjusts charging current/voltage accordingly, eliminating the need for complex user interfaces and multiple key presses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors charging status through sensors that detect battery voltage, current, and temperature, providing real-time feedback to the charging management module. This feedback loop enables dynamic adjustment of charging parameters and automatic termination when charging criteria are met, reducing both interface complexity and management time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If battery is charged to maximum capacity, then full charge is achieved, but battery life is reduced due to overcharging and extended high charge maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery lifeVSAvoidcharging efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system intentionally limits charging to below maximum capacity (e.g., stopping at 80% instead of 100%) when certain conditions are met, such as when the device is connected to power for extended periods or when battery temperature is elevated. This partial charging approach reduces stress on the battery and extends its lifespan while still providing sufficient operational energy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The charging management module dynamically adjusts charging parameters based on real-time conditions including battery state of charge, temperature, and power source characteristics. The system transitions between different charging modes (e.g., fast charging, standard charging, maintenance charging) and automatically adjusts charging current and voltage to optimize both battery longevity and charging efficiency under varying conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If complex charging management interface is used, then charging control functionality is provided, but cognitive burden on user increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging control capabilityVSAvoiduser cognitive burden
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The charging management system operates autonomously by automatically detecting charging conditions, selecting appropriate charging modes, and adjusting parameters without user intervention. The system monitors battery status, device temperature, and power source characteristics, then independently makes charging decisions, eliminating the need for users to navigate complex interfaces or understand charging parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The charging management module acts as an intermediary between the user and the complex charging control system. It provides a simplified interface that displays basic charging status information while handling all complex charging management tasks internally, shielding the user from complexity while maintaining versatile charging control capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20240078002A1User interfaces for device charging
Publication Date: 2024.03.07 APPLE INC
  • US20240078002A1 patent drawing
  • US20240078002A1 patent drawing
  • US20240078002A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure generally relates to methods for managing charging of an electronic device.