Integrated Battery Charger for Portable Generator Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable generators often have separate battery chargers that are susceptible to loss, theft, or damage, and require additional equipment and outlets, making them inconvenient and unprotected.
Innovation Solution
A power-generating apparatus with a robust frame incorporating a battery charger securely fastened to the frame, electrically coupled to an alternator, and featuring receptacles for battery packs, allowing for integrated charging and eliminating the need for a separate charger, while also providing an engine start circuit using the battery pack to start the engine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate battery charger is used, then the generator can charge battery packs, but the charger is susceptible to loss, theft, and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The battery charger is integrated into the generator housing, combining two previously separate devices (generator and charger) into a single unified unit. This eliminates the need for a separate charger that could be lost or stolen, while reducing the overall number of components the user must manage and protect.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate battery charger is used, then the generator can charge battery packs, but additional equipment and outlets are required
Solution Approach 1:
The generator is designed with built-in battery charging capability, making it a multi-functional device that can both generate power for external devices and charge battery packs internally. This eliminates the need for separate charging equipment and outlets, as the generator itself serves as the charging source.
3Reliability
If the battery charger is securely fastened to the frame, then protection is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The battery charger is structurally integrated into the generator frame, with the charger housing forming part of the overall frame structure. This secure integration provides protection and stability while avoiding the need for separate mounting mechanisms or additional structural components.
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 integrated battery charger enhances portability and protection, reduces the need for additional equipment, and allows for efficient charging of higher voltage power tool battery packs, while the engine start circuit eliminates the requirement for a separate engine start battery.
Implementation Method 1
an alternator coupled to the engine and operable to convert mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
a battery charger supported by the frame and electrically coupled to the alternator. The battery charger is operable to charge a battery pack with the electrical energy from the alternator
Implementation Method 3
an engine start circuit electrically coupled to the starter motor and the battery charger. The engine start circuit is operable to direct power from the battery pack to the starter motor to start the engine
Data Source
AI summary
A power-generating apparatus includes a frame, an engine supported by the frame, an alternator coupled to the engine and operable to convert mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy, and a battery charger supported by the frame and electrically coupled to the alternator. The battery charger is operable to charge a battery pack with the electrical energy from the alternator.