Conductive Laptop Charging Station for Cordless Multi-Device Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging systems for mobile devices, particularly laptops, face issues such as manual connection requirements, power cord obstructions, device tracking, and inefficient inductive charging, leading to frustration and inefficiency in educational settings where multiple devices need simultaneous charging.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a mobile device enclosure with a receiver and a base unit that automatically charges devices by electrical prongs connecting to charging plates, integrated with software for asset management and power optimization, allowing simultaneous charging and monitoring of multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual connection of power cords is used for charging mobile devices, then charging can be performed, but student forgetfulness and failed connections occur leading to devices not being charged
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic charging by detecting when a mobile device is placed on the charging surface and autonomously establishing electrical connection and initiating power transfer, eliminating the need for manual plugging and ensuring reliable charging without user intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical connection of power cords with an automated detection and connection system that uses sensors and control circuits to automatically establish electrical contact when a device is placed on the charging surface
2Reliability
If power cords are run from wall outlets to student desks for charging, then devices can be charged, but walkways become obstructed creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the charging function from traditional wall outlet power cords and integrates it into a self-contained charging surface unit with built-in power supply, eliminating the need for external cords that obstruct walkways
Solution Approach 2:
The charging surface serves multiple functions: it provides charging capability, houses power supply components, and acts as a student workstation surface, eliminating the need for separate power cord infrastructure
3Ease of operation
If inductive charging systems are used for mobile devices, then charging without direct connection is achieved, but power throughput is limited due to electrical losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces inductive charging with direct conductive charging through electrical prongs that make physical contact with charging plates, eliminating the energy losses inherent in wireless inductive power transfer while maintaining automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses electrical prongs as an intermediary component that bridges the device charging port and the charging surface plates, enabling efficient direct electrical connection while maintaining automated connection through the mediator mechanism
4Reliability
If multiple individual charging cables are used for mobile devices, then each device can be charged, but the cables fray and fail over time with use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple individual charging cables into a single integrated charging surface with built-in power distribution, eliminating the wear and failure issues of repeated cable plugging and unplugging by providing a fixed charging infrastructure
5Productivity
If a charging station accepts multiple mobile devices simultaneously, then all devices can be recharged at once, but the system must manage different charge states and device types
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that detect the presence, type, and charge state of each device on the charging surface, providing feedback to a control system that automatically adjusts charging parameters to optimize charging for multiple different devices simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system dynamically adapts its operation by detecting device characteristics and automatically adjusting charging parameters for each device, enabling the system to handle multiple different device types and charge states with varying charging requirements
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 automatic, efficient charging of multiple mobile devices without manual connection, reduces cord obstructions, and provides comprehensive asset management, ensuring devices are charged and tracked for optimal performance and security.
Implementation Method 1
two electrical prongs establish electrical contact with two of the charging plates housed within the base unit, and wherein current flows from the charging plates to the electrical prongs
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to automatic charging systems and methods for mobile devices that require more power than is possible with inductive chargers. A mobile device charging station is provided, wherein each mobile device inserted for charging contains a charging receiver that is attached to a cover, such as a laptop cover. The cabinet further comprises a multiplicity of base stations, each of which provides a grid of conductive alternating polarity connection plates, spaced to accept two prongs similarly spaced on the bottom of the charging receiver. Power flows from the base station automatically through the charging receiver to the mobile device when it is placed on a surface containing a base station within the cabinet. Computer software is included to control and monitor all functionality of the system, such a optimal power flow and battery charging; and further provides key asset management tools to allow a user to know, for example, the number and exact location of all devices using the invention and under his or her control.