In-Battery Module Control via Data Activity Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable communication devices face challenges in upgrading radio features without requiring manual on/off switching, which is typically factory-set or service-shop dependent, leading to increased parts count and cost, especially when retrofitting older devices.
Innovation Solution
A battery pack with automated internal control using a three-wire interface and monitoring circuitry to detect data activity on a single-wire signal, automatically turning on/off the in-battery radio application module, eliminating the need for external switches and additional interface contacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an additional contact is used to provide on/off capability for the in-battery module, then the module can be manually controlled, but the parts count and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The in-battery application module automatically detects radio data activity and self-regulates its power state without requiring manual user intervention or additional control contacts. The module monitors the data bus for radio activity and autonomously transitions between active and inactive states, eliminating the need for external on/off switching hardware.
2Ease of operation
If an additional contact is used to provide on/off capability for the in-battery module, then the module can be manually controlled, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for additional control contacts and associated manufacturing costs by implementing self-service automation. The module uses existing data bus signals to detect radio activity and automatically controls its own power state, reducing parts count and manufacturing complexity while maintaining operational control.
3Loss of energy
If the radio electronics in the battery pack are turned off when the radio is turned off, then battery drainage is prevented, but automated detection and control capability is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the data bus for radio activity signals. When no radio data activity is detected, the module automatically transitions to an inactive power state, preventing battery drainage. This feedback mechanism enables automated energy management using existing communication bus signals without requiring additional control hardware.
4Extent of automation
If monitoring circuitry is added to detect data activity, then automated on/off control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring circuitry leverages the existing data bus infrastructure already present in the battery-radio interface for its dual purpose: both for radio communication and for detecting radio activity to control module power state. This multi-functional use of existing signals minimizes the need for separate monitoring hardware and reduces overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus (100) is provided for powering an in-battery electronic application module (118) without the use of an external on/off switch. A battery pack (102) is electrically coupled to a radio (104) via three interface contacts: power (108), ground (112) and single-wire serial data port (110). Circuitry is included within the battery pack (102) to sense and monitor data activity on the single-wire serial data port (110) generated as the radio (104) is turned on. Based on the level and timing (200) of the data activity present on the single-wire serial port (110), the electronic application module (118) can automatically be turned on (208), remain on (210) and turned off (212).


