Inductive Receiver in Mobile Device Accessories

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mobile communication device chargers are bulky, unsightly, and often lead to devices running out of power at inconvenient times due to infrequent charging, and existing inductive charging systems require bulky secondary modules for devices without integral secondary windings.

Innovation Solution

An inductive power providing system that incorporates a secondary inductor into accessories such as carrying cases, earphone units, and skins for mobile devices, allowing inductive coupling with a primary inductor connected to a power supply, eliminating the need for traditional charging cables and enabling convenient, retrofittable power supply for various portable electronic devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional wired charger is used, then the device can be recharged reliably, but the trailing wire is unsightly and can be damaged or cause safety issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging convenienceVSAvoidwire damage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with an inductive coupling system using electromagnetic fields. The primary inductor in the charging surface and secondary inductor in the device enable wireless power transfer, eliminating the physical wire that causes damage and aesthetic issues while maintaining reliable charging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediate charging surface with a primary inductor as a mediator between the power source and the device. This intermediate component enables inductive coupling, allowing power transfer without direct wire connection, thus solving both the wire damage problem and maintaining charging reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a bulky charger is carried, then the device can be recharged frequently, but the charger becomes cumbersome and is often left at home

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging availabilityVSAvoidcharger weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the charging functionality with the charging surface (e.g., table, desk) by embedding the primary inductor in it. This integration eliminates the need for a separate portable charger, making the charging infrastructure stationary and accessible wherever the surface is located, thus improving charging availability without adding weight to carried items.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The charging surface serves multiple functions: it acts as both a functional surface (table, desk) and a power transmission medium. The primary inductor embedded in the surface enables multiple devices to be charged simultaneously at different locations, providing universal charging access without requiring users to carry dedicated chargers.

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

3Ease of operation

If inductive charging is implemented, then wireless power transfer is achieved, but bulky secondary modules are required for devices without integral secondary windings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless charging capabilityVSAvoidsecondary module volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables devices to use their existing internal secondary windings (already present for other functions) to receive inductive power. The device's own components serve the dual purpose of both their original function and inductive power reception, eliminating the need for additional bulky secondary modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameters of existing device components by utilizing their secondary windings for inductive coupling. By adjusting the frequency and coupling parameters, the existing windings can efficiently receive power wirelessly without requiring physical modifications or additional bulky components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution provides a neat, safe, and flexible power supply method that reduces the risk of wire damage, allows for wireless charging, and integrates charging functionality into existing device accessories, enhancing convenience and usability.

Implementation Method 1

a secondary inductor, wired to the electrical device, for inductively coupling with a primary inductor hardwired to a power supply

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8762749B2Inductive receivers for electrical devices
Publication Date: 2014.06.24 POWERMAT TECHNOLOGIES
  • US8762749B2 patent drawing
  • US8762749B2 patent drawing
  • US8762749B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power providing system for an electrical device includes a secondary inductor, wired to the electrical device, for inductively coupling with a primary inductor hardwired to a power supply. The secondary inductor is incorporated into an accessory of the electrical device.