Connected Charger Communication Hub for Cordless Tool Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power tools often lack wireless communication capabilities, making it difficult to transmit and receive information between tools, battery packs, and remote computing devices, which is essential for efficient operation and monitoring on construction sites.
Innovation Solution
A connected charger with a communications module, such as a cellular transceiver, that enables bidirectional communication between power tools, battery packs, and cloud-based computing systems, allowing for the transmission of information even when the battery pack is disconnected, and storing information for bulk transfer at optimal times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power tools are equipped with wireless communication capabilities, then communication between tools and remote systems is enabled, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the communication module with the charging device to create an integrated system. The charging device houses both charging functionality and wireless communication capabilities (cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), allowing data transmission without requiring separate communication devices at each job site location.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging device serves multiple functions: it charges battery packs and simultaneously acts as a communication hub. The single device performs both power transfer and data transmission roles, eliminating the need for dedicated communication equipment and reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If communication modules are integrated into the charging device, then data transmission is enabled without additional devices, but the charging device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the communication module with the charging device, creating a multi-functional unit that handles both power charging and data communication. This integration eliminates the need for separate communication devices at job sites while consolidating functionality into a single device.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging device acts as an intermediary between battery packs/tools and remote systems. It receives data from battery packs during charging, stores it in memory, and transmits it remotely via communication modules, serving as a bridge that simplifies the overall communication architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the charging device stores and transmits data remotely, then communication coverage is extended to areas without direct tool connectivity, but data transmission delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging device performs preliminary data collection and storage during the battery charging process. Data is captured and held in memory while the battery charges, preparing it for subsequent remote transmission. This preliminary action ensures data is ready for immediate transmission once connectivity is available, minimizing overall delay.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging device serves as an intermediary that buffers data transmission. It receives data from battery packs, stores it temporarily in memory, and then transmits it remotely when communication resources are available. This mediation allows data to be communicated from locations without direct tool connectivity while managing transmission timing efficiently.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a first battery pack configured to receive and gather power tool information and/or battery pack information. The system includes a connected charger configured to removably couple with the first battery pack to charge or recharge the first battery pack via a first interface. The connected charger includes a memory configured to receive the power tool information and/or the first battery pack information via the first interface. The connected charger includes a communications module disposed within the housing of the connected charger. The communications module is configured to transmit the received power tool and/or the received first battery pack information to a cloud-based computing system during a period of time when the first battery pack is disconnected from the first interface.