Wireless Inductive Power Cradle for Laptop Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supply systems for portable electronic devices require multiple cords, leading to clutter and hinder mobility, as they lack wireless power transfer capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power supply system using inductive coupling, with a cradle that supports devices in multiple orientations and includes multiple primaries to generate electromagnetic fields for efficient power transfer, allowing for flexible placement and simultaneous charging of multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional corded power supply systems are used, then devices can receive power reliably, but cords create clutter and hinder mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the power cord from the system by implementing wireless inductive power transfer. The primary coil in the base unit generates an electromagnetic field that inductively couples with the secondary coil in the portable device, eliminating the need for physical cord connections and thereby removing clutter while maintaining power supply functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical cord-based power connection with an electromagnetic field-based inductive power transfer system. The primary coil generates an alternating magnetic field that induces current in the secondary coil, substituting the mechanical plug-and-cord system with a non-contact electromagnetic coupling mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single primary coil is used in the base unit, then the structure is simple, but it can only efficiently power devices in one specific orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the single primary coil into multiple independent primary coils arranged in different orientations within the base unit. Each primary coil is oriented to optimally couple with the secondary coil when the portable device is placed in a specific orientation, allowing the system to support multiple device placements without requiring a single complex omnidirectional coil.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit with multiple primary coils achieves multi-functionality by being able to power portable devices in various orientations (horizontal, vertical, angled). Each primary coil serves a specific orientation function, and collectively they provide universal power transfer capability across multiple device placement scenarios.
3Ease of operation
If wireless inductive power transfer is implemented, then mobility is improved, but power transfer efficiency may be reduced compared to corded connections
Solution Approach 1:
The invention positions the primary and secondary coils in predetermined optimal configurations within the base unit and portable device respectively. The coils are pre-aligned and spaced to maximize magnetic coupling coefficient, ensuring efficient power transfer before the device is actually placed. This preliminary positioning action minimizes energy loss during the power transfer process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs dynamic control of the primary coil's excitation parameters (frequency, amplitude) to optimize power transfer efficiency. The system can adjust the operating parameters of the primary coil based on the detected position and orientation of the portable device, maintaining maximum coupling efficiency despite variations in device placement.
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
The system provides a clutter-free and mobile solution for powering and charging portable devices by eliminating cords, offering efficient power transfer and adaptability to different device orientations and power requirements.
Implementation Method 1
an inductive power supply for generating an electromagnetic field, and a primary disposed on or within the cradle, the primary being operatively coupled to the inductive power supply to generate the electromagnetic field
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides wireless power supply systems intended primarily for use in powering and charging laptops and other portable electronic devices. In one embodiment, the power supply system includes a laptop cradle that can be used in upright or reclined positions. The cradle may be generally J-shaped and may house the wireless power supply circuit with the channel defined in the cradle. The cradle may includes a plurality of primaries to provide the ability to supply power to more than one device and/or to permit flexibility in placement of devices on or in the cradle. The present invention may also provide handheld cradles sized to power handheld devices that can be separate, standalone power supply stations or they can receive power from the laptop cradle. In an alternative embodiment, the power supply station may be incorporated into an adjustable height desktop pedestal. In yet another embodiment, the power supply station may be incorporated into a flexible desktop mat. The power supply station may be incorporated into a power block having one or more magnets that draw the power block into alignment. In another alternative embodiment, the power supply station is incorporated directly into items of luggage.