Magnetic Docking Case for Interim Mobile Device Charging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barcode readers face challenges in providing reliable and efficient charging solutions, especially for mobile devices used in harsh environments or during extended operations, where battery power may be depleted before data transfer can occur.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a case with a magnetic portion and a power coupling circuit for a mobile device, paired with a docking station featuring a mating surface, magnet, and charging circuitry, allowing for inductive charging and alignment through magnetic attraction, ensuring power transfer even when the device is docked externally.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the mobile device is used in harsh environments or during extended operations, then the operational duration is extended, but the battery power may be depleted before data transfer can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary charging action by providing interim charging capability through the case and docking station before the device is fully depleted. The case includes a power coupling circuit that can receive power from an external docking station and store it, enabling the device to be charged in advance during brief docking periods, thus ensuring power availability for continued use and data transfer even when the internal battery is depleted.
Solution Approach 2:
The case acts as an intermediary between the mobile device and the external power source. It includes a power coupling circuit that interfaces with the device's charging contacts and can receive, store, and transfer power to the device, serving as a buffer that ensures continuous power availability even when direct connection to external power is not possible.
2Power
If a docking station is used for charging, then power transfer capability is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The case serves multiple functions: it protects the mobile device, provides magnetic alignment with the docking station, enables power transfer through the power coupling circuit, and offers interim charging capability. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated charging devices, thereby managing system complexity while maintaining improved power transfer capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical connection systems with magnetic alignment. The magnetic portion in the case and magnet in the docking station automatically align and secure the device during docking, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment of mechanical connectors and reducing the complexity of the docking interface while maintaining reliable power transfer.
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 interim charging capabilities, extending the operational cycle of mobile devices by ensuring power is available for continued use and data transfer, even when the internal battery is depleted, and offers protection from environmental hazards.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet located at the mating surface. The magnet magnetically secures the magnetic portion of the case to the docking station
Implementation Method 2
The device charging circuit may include an inductive charging power coil. The power coupling circuit may include an inductive charging receiving coil. The device charging circuit may couple power from the power storage to the power coupling circuit through the inductive charging power coil
Data Source
AI summary
An interim charging system includes a docking station and a case for a mobile device. The case is magnetically secured to the docking station. The docking station includes a power source and a charger that charges the mobile device in the case.