Modular Charging Station With Daisy-Chain Power Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing charging solutions for portable electronic devices are cumbersome and lack standardization, leading to difficulties in managing and organizing multiple devices and cables, especially with the proliferation of proprietary connectors and limited expandability in charging stations.
Innovation Solution
A modular device charging station system that allows multiple charging stations to be daisy-chained over a single AC power path, featuring a cradle body with inductive charging capabilities, pass-through power connectors, and a modular design with locator pins and holes for secure engagement, enabling efficient charging of various devices without the need for multiple power connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate power adapters and cables are used for different devices, then each device can be charged, but cable management becomes cumbersome and organization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple charging functions into a single integrated charging station with a common power source. Multiple devices can be charged simultaneously through one unified unit, eliminating the need for multiple separate power adapters and cables. This merging approach directly addresses the cable management issue by consolidating what was previously scattered across multiple devices into one organized location.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging station is designed with universal compatibility to charge multiple types of devices simultaneously. It incorporates multiple connectors and charging circuits that can accommodate different device types (smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.) through a single multi-functional unit, thereby providing adaptability without requiring separate specialized chargers for each device type.
2Reliability
If proprietary connectors are used for different devices, then device-specific charging requirements are met, but standardization and compatibility become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The charging station incorporates multiple connector types (USB-A, USB-C, Lightning, Micro-USB, etc.) within a single device, allowing it to universally charge various device types. This multi-functional approach maintains device-specific charging reliability through appropriate connectors while achieving broad compatibility across different device ecosystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging station divides its connector interface into separate, specialized segments for different connector types. Each connector type is optimized for specific device categories, ensuring reliable device-specific charging while the overall segmented structure provides universal adaptability. This segmentation allows the system to handle proprietary connectors without requiring a single universal connector design.
3Device complexity
If a single charging station charges multiple devices, then cable clutter is reduced, but the charging station needs multiple power connections which increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power connection functions into a single power input that distributes power to multiple output connectors. The charging station accepts one AC power input and internally distributes it through multiple charging circuits to various device connectors, effectively reducing the number of power connections from multiple wall outlets to a single unified power source.
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 modular system simplifies the charging process by allowing multiple devices to be charged simultaneously with a single power source, reducing cable clutter and enhancing user experience through standardized connections and easy device placement, while maintaining compatibility with different device types.
Implementation Method 1
charging circuit with a power signal input connected to the power connector socket
Data Source
AI summary
A modular device charging station connectible to a power source through a cable includes an input endcap defining a power connector slot and a plurality of input locator pins in a predefined layout. A cradle body is defined by a device receptacle, with an input side having a power connector socket connectible to the cable and defining one or more input side locator holes receptively engageable with the input locator pins. An output side A pass-through power connector plug and a plurality of output locator pins in the predefined layout are on an output side. A terminating endcap defines a plug pocket and a plurality of terminating-side locator holes in the predefined layout receptively engageable with the output locator pins. A charging circuit with a power signal input is connected to the power connector socket, and the pass-through power connector plug is electrically connected to the power connector socket.