Dual-Interface Charging Connector With Bidirectional Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current data lines are not universal and cannot charge both Android and Apple mobile phones due to their specific charging interfaces, leading to the need for multiple charging lines and increased plastic production and waste.

Innovation Solution

A charging apparatus with a bidirectional switching circuit that includes a T-shaped connector housing with integrated Type-C and Lightning interfaces, a chip, and a transfer switch, allowing for the connection of either interface to enable charging of both Android and Apple mobile phones using a single data line.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate data lines are used for Type-C and Lightning interfaces, then each interface can be optimized for its specific charging needs, but users need to carry multiple charging lines and plastic waste increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging interface compatibilityVSAvoidnumber of charging lines
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines Type-C and Lightning interfaces into a single charging apparatus by integrating both interface types and their respective charging circuits into one device. The switching circuit allows seamless transition between interfaces, enabling users to charge both Type-C and Lightning devices with a single apparatus, thereby reducing the need for multiple separate charging lines and minimizing plastic waste.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The charging apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to support both Type-C and Lightning interfaces simultaneously. By incorporating dual charging circuits and a bidirectional switching mechanism, the apparatus can adapt to different interface types based on the connected device, providing universal charging capability across different mobile phone types without requiring separate specialized chargers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a single charging apparatus supports both Type-C and Lightning interfaces, then users need only one charging line, but the internal circuit structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterface support capabilityVSAvoidcircuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The charging apparatus is segmented into distinct functional modules: a Type-C charging circuit module, a Lightning charging circuit module, and a bidirectional switching circuit module. Each module is independently designed and optimized, with the switching circuit acting as a controller that selectively connects the appropriate module to the charging port. This modular segmentation manages internal complexity while maintaining dual interface support capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP4489259A1Charging apparatus supporting a bidirectional switching circuit
Publication Date: 2025.01.08 XIEXUN ELECTRONICS JI AN
  • EP4489259A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4489259A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4489259A1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

Provided is a charging apparatus supporting a bidirectional switching circuit. The apparatus includes a connector housing, a connection body, and a wire. The connector housing has a T-shaped structure. The bottom of the connector housing in a vertical direction is fixed to one end of the connection body. The wire is fixed to another end of the connector body. A Type-C interface is installed on one end of the connector housing. A lightning interface is installed on another end of the connector housing. A chip is installed inside the connector housing. The present disclosure can meet the needs of charging various types of device and can also achieve the saving and environmental protection to a certain extent.