Dual Connector Electrical Device Docking System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing small electrical devices with separate charging stations face limitations such as inability to operate until charging is complete and the need to carry bulky charging devices, along with complex and costly manufacturing issues due to precise contact arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring a primary electrical device with dual coupling elements for energy and information transmission, including a separate connector for receiving energy, which can be either electrical plug-type or inductive, allowing for automatic contact and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single connector is used for both energy transmission and information exchange, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of energy transmission is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the coupling interface into two separate connectors: a first connector dedicated to energy transmission and a second connector dedicated to information exchange. This segmentation allows each connector to be optimized for its specific function, ensuring reliable energy transmission while simplifying the overall system architecture by eliminating the need for complex multi-functional connectors.
2Reliability
If a complex contact arrangement with detent hooks is used, then mechanical locking is achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the mechanical locking function from the electrical contact arrangement. The detent hook mechanism is completely removed, and mechanical locking is achieved through simple geometric interlocking of the housing structures. This allows the electrical contacts to be simple push-button type connections that engage automatically when the devices are mated, dramatically simplifying manufacturing and assembly while maintaining reliable mechanical coupling.
3Reliability
If precise contact arrangement is implemented, then electrical contact reliability is improved, but positional deviations cause plugging or jamming problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements different contact mechanisms for different functions at different locations. The first connector uses simple push-button contacts for energy transmission that are tolerant of positional variations, while the second connector uses corresponding contacts for information exchange. The housing structures provide geometric guidance that ensures proper alignment without requiring high-precision manufacturing of the contact elements themselves, reducing plugging and jamming issues.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a separate charging station is used, then charging function is provided, but the charging device becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the charging function with the information exchange connector. The second connector serves dual purposes: it transmits information between the devices and simultaneously provides the electrical connection for charging when the primary device is docked. This eliminates the need for a separate bulky charging station, as the charging capability is integrated into the communication interface, reducing overall system weight and complexity.
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 convenient and reliable energy transfer and information exchange, simplifying the docking process and reducing the need for bulky charging devices, while allowing for independent operation and charging of small devices.
Implementation Method 1
each of said two devices being provided with corresponding first electrical or electromagnetic coupling elements for transmitting energy and/or information
Implementation Method 2
The additional coupling element (13, 23) is configured to couple the small electrical device (1, 21) for receiving electrical or electromagnetic energy
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprising a primary electrical device, such as a shaver, and an auxiliary electrical device, such as a shaver cleaner, defining a receiving arrangement for receiving the primary electrical device. The primary electrical device includes a first connector configured to couple with an associated connector of the auxiliary device to transmit electrical or electromagnetic energy between the devices. The primary electrical device includes an additional connector configured to couple the primary electrical device for receiving electrical or electromagnetic energy, such as from an electric mains voltage.