Micro Power Generator Cam Clutch Kinetic Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable IoT devices with lithium batteries typically have a short power duration of 3-5 days, limiting their tracking functionality in case of lost pets or children, as they cannot sustain tracking functions beyond this period.
Innovation Solution
A micro power generator incorporating a cam structure, electromagnetic unit, and clutch mechanism that stores kinetic energy during activity and generates electricity when separated, allowing for extended battery life by harnessing movement to charge the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a small lithium battery is used to power the tracker, then the device size can be kept small, but the power duration is limited to only 3-5 days
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using the cam structure to accumulate and store mechanical energy from the wearer's movements before the battery is depleted. The cam structure converts kinetic energy into potential energy during the wearer's normal activities, which is then released to generate electricity when needed, extending the operational duration beyond the original battery life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by introducing a mechanical energy storage system that dynamically converts the wearer's movements into electrical energy. The cam structure and clutch mechanism create a dynamic energy harvesting system that actively captures and stores energy during movement, transforming the static battery-powered system into a dynamic self-charging system.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a micro power generator is added to extend battery life, then the power duration can be extended beyond 3-5 days, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating the power generation function directly into the existing tracker housing. The cam structure is formed within the housing itself, and the electromagnetic unit is incorporated into the same structure, combining multiple functions (housing, energy storage, and power generation) into a single integrated component rather than adding separate modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing the cam structure to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the housing structure and the energy storage mechanism, while also serving as the drive element for the electromagnetic unit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and simplifies the overall device structure despite adding power generation capability.
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 micro power generator extends the battery life of wearable trackers, increasing the chances of locating lost pets or children by continuously generating power from their movement.
Implementation Method 1
the electromagnetic unit generates electricity due to the rotation of the central shaft
Implementation Method 2
the motion of the cam structure drives the first clockwork gear to be rotated in the winding direction to wind up the first clockwork for storing kinetic energy
Data Source
AI summary
A micro power generator is provided, including a cam structure, an electromagnetic unit, a first clutch, and a first energy converting unit. The electromagnetic unit is partially disposed in the cam structure, which includes a central shaft and a first shaft gear. The first shaft gear is rotated with the central shaft. The first clutch is telescoped on the central shaft, and rotated with the first shaft gear. The first energy converting unit is connected to the first shaft gear of the electromagnetic unit. In an energy-storing state, the first clutch is connected to the cam structure and is moved with the cam structure and the first shaft gear to move the first energy converting unit and to store the kinetic energy of the cam structure to the first energy converting unit. In a power-generating state, the first clutch is separated from the cam structure.