Input Port Voltage Sharing for Cooperative Multi-Device Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional input devices are limited to specific functions and cannot be cooperatively operated with each other, requiring individual connection to external power sources, which is not user-friendly for multiple device usage.

Innovation Solution

An input system with a voltage transmission function, comprising multiple input devices with a main body, connecting ports, a power switching circuit, and a control unit that enables voltage transmission between devices, allowing them to be connected and operated together.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different input devices are used simultaneously with specified functions only, then each device can perform its dedicated function reliably, but the devices cannot be connected with each other or cooperatively operated, reducing system versatility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecooperative operation capabilityVSAvoidconnection structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The input devices are designed with universal connecting ports that can connect to both external power sources and other input devices. The power switching circuit enables the same port to serve multiple functions: receiving power from external sources or transmitting power to connected devices, thereby achieving multi-functionality and cooperative operation without increasing connection complexity

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

Solution Approach 2:

The power switching circuit acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the connecting port and the power source/connected device. It intelligently switches between receiving power from an external source and transmitting power to a connected input device, enabling cooperative operation while maintaining a simple connection structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If each input device is individually connected with external power sources, then each device can operate independently, but the connection structure becomes complex and not user-friendly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower connection convenienceVSAvoidpower source requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple input devices are merged into a cooperative system where one device can serve as a power source for another. Instead of each device requiring its own external power connection, the system allows power to be shared through device-to-device connections, simplifying the overall power connection structure and improving ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Input devices are designed to serve themselves and each other in the power supply chain. A device that is connected to an external power source can automatically serve as a power source for connected devices without requiring additional external power connections, enabling the system to self-organize power distribution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 cooperative operation of multiple input devices, allowing for adjustable combinations and increased or decreased device configurations based on user preference, enhancing usability and storage efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

the first voltage is converted into a second voltage by the power switching circuit of the first input device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS11870336B1Input system with voltage transmission function and input device thereof
Publication Date: 2024.01.09 PRIMAX ELECTRONICS LTD
  • US11870336B1 patent drawing
  • US11870336B1 patent drawing
  • US11870336B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An input system includes a first input device and a second input device. Each of the first input device and the second input device includes a main body, a first connecting port, at least two second connecting ports, a power switching circuit and a control unit. When the first connecting port of the first input device is connected with an external power source, the power switching circuit of the first input device receives a first voltage from the external power source. When one of the second connecting ports of the first input device is connected with one of the second connecting ports of the second input device, the first voltage is converted into a second voltage by the power switching circuit of the first input device and the second voltage is transmitted to the second input device.