Electric apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric apparatuses, such as coffee makers and electric kettles, rely on AC power sources and are not usable in locations without access to AC power, like construction or horticultural sites.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing rechargeable batteries from electric power tools as a power source, allowing for the creation of battery-type electric apparatuses that can operate without AC power, with features like heat generation, cooling, and voltage management to extend usage duration and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If AC power source is used for electric apparatus, then the apparatus can provide stable power for heat generation or cooling functions, but the apparatus cannot be used in locations without AC power outlets
Solution Approach 1:
The electric apparatus is designed to accept multiple power source types (AC power outlets and rechargeable batteries) to perform the same heating or cooling functions. This multi-functionality allows the apparatus to operate universally in both indoor AC-powered environments and outdoor locations without AC access, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability by providing alternative power pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
A rechargeable battery serves as an intermediary power source between the user and the electric apparatus when AC power is unavailable. The battery converts chemical energy to electrical energy, enabling the apparatus to function in outdoor locations. This intermediary solution maintains operational reliability while expanding geographic adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If battery from electric power tool is used as power source, then the apparatus can be used outdoors without AC power, but the battery capacity may be insufficient for extended operation
Solution Approach 1:
The power tool battery is divided into modular battery packs that can be independently attached to the electric apparatus. Users can segment the total power requirement into multiple battery units, attaching one or more packs depending on the desired operation duration. This segmentation allows flexible extension of operation time while maintaining outdoor usability.
Solution Approach 2:
Batteries are recharged in advance using AC power when available, storing energy for later outdoor use. This preliminary charging action ensures that sufficient energy is available before departing for locations without AC access, extending the potential duration of outdoor operation without requiring larger battery capacity in the portable unit.
3Duration of action of moving object
If multiple batteries are used to extend operation duration, then the apparatus can operate for longer periods, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric apparatus incorporates a universal battery interface design that accepts standard power tool battery packs, allowing one or more batteries to be attached without requiring different connection mechanisms. This universal interface simplifies the complexity that would otherwise arise from managing multiple battery types or configurations, enabling extended operation through simple addition of battery units.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus automatically manages multiple attached batteries through intelligent power distribution and status monitoring systems. The control circuitry autonomously balances power draw across batteries, monitors charge levels, and manages switching between units, eliminating the need for manual battery management by the user. This self-service approach extends operation duration while keeping the user interface simple.
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 the use of electric apparatuses like coffee makers and kettles outdoors by leveraging batteries from power tools, providing a convenient and durable solution for areas without AC power, with features like automatic power shut-off and heat retention.
Implementation Method 1
a battery that can be attached to an electric power tool as its power source can be used as a power source
Implementation Method 2
by use of the heat generating function according to the first aspect... it is possible to generate heat with the electric power
Data Source
AI summary
A rechargeable battery type electric power tool is widely used for a construction work or a horticultural work. A battery of the electric power tool can also be used as a power source of an electric apparatus. Because of this construction, there is provided the electric apparatus that has a function equivalent to that of an AC power source type apparatus.