Cordless Power Supply with Universal Battery Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power supplies lack versatility and efficiency in providing power to a variety of cordless devices, particularly due to limitations in handling high current requirements and compatibility with different battery types and vehicle power sources.
Innovation Solution
A cordless power supply system featuring a power conversion unit that can convert input power from removable batteries into multiple output types, including AC line power, automotive DC power, and USB DC power, with a tool side connection system allowing for quick and adaptable attachment of various battery types, and a vehicle power adapter that can draw power from multiple vehicle outlets or directly from the vehicle battery, using current limiting algorithms to manage power input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a power supply is designed to handle high current requirements, then power delivery capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply unit is designed to provide multiple output types (AC line power, automotive DC power, USB DC power) from a single device, allowing it to handle diverse power requirements without requiring separate power supply devices for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system is divided into removable battery modules and a power conversion unit, allowing the high current handling capability to be segmented across multiple battery cells while the conversion unit manages the complexity of power delivery
2Adaptability or versatility
If the power supply is designed to be compatible with different battery types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power conversion unit is designed with a universal interface that can accept different types of removable batteries, enabling compatibility with various battery chemistries and form factors through a single standardized connection mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
A standardized tool side connection serves as an intermediary interface between the removable batteries and the power conversion unit, allowing different battery types to connect through a common protocol without requiring the power supply to be redesigned for each battery type
3Ease of operation
If quick-changeable connection is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may worsen due to connection stability
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from static permanent mounting to dynamic quick-changeable mounting, allowing the tool side connection to be easily attached and detached while maintaining stable electrical contact through spring-loaded or latch-based mechanisms that ensure reliable connection during operation
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 efficient and versatile power supply to a wide range of devices, including tools and electronics, by effectively managing high current demands and adapting to different battery types and power sources, ensuring reliable operation and extended run times.
Implementation Method 1
The power conversion unit in turn comprises the functions of converting the input power from the removable battery into one or more widely used types of output power including but not limited to AC line power, 12 or 24 volt automotive level DC power, and 5-volt logic level DC power
Data Source
AI summary
A cordless power supply comprising a battery, a power conversion unit, a first standard coupling half permanently affixed to the power conversion unit and a second standard coupling half which reciprocally mates with the first standard coupling half is disclosed and claimed. The second standard coupling half includes a first interengaging half and a second interengaging half. The first interengaging half being standardly engageable with the first standard coupling half permanently affixed to the power conversion unit. The second interengaging half is interengageable with a specific battery. The battery may be a dual use cordless tool battery or an original equipment battery. Alternatively, a cordless power supply comprising an interchangeable adapter may be mounted on the power conversion unit for interconnection with a plurality of batteries. Alternatively, a cordless power supply comprising an adapter integral with the power conversion unit may be used with a specific battery type.