Modular Charging Ports With Interlocking Segments for Flexible Upgrades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional charging systems lack flexibility and modularity, offering only fixed configurations and single functions, limiting their adaptability and upgradability to meet varying charging needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular charging system comprising interchangeable segments with connectors for interlocking and a common power bus, allowing for customizable configurations and easy upgrades, including various ports and communication methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed configuration charging device is used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different charging needs is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The charging device is divided into multiple independent charging portions, each capable of charging different types of devices. These portions can be selectively coupled together via connectors to form customized charging configurations, allowing the system to adapt to various charging needs while maintaining relatively simple individual module structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging portions are designed with universal interfaces and connectors that allow them to be coupled in different configurations. Each charging portion can serve multiple functions depending on how it is combined with other portions, enabling a single modular unit to perform various charging tasks across different device types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed configuration charging device is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the upgradability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the charging device into standardized modular portions with uniform connectors, each module can be manufactured independently using standardized processes. This segmentation enables easier upgradability as new charging portions can be developed and integrated without redesigning the entire system, while still benefiting from economies of scale in manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows the charging system to dynamically adapt and evolve. New charging portions with updated features or technologies can be introduced and coupled with existing portions, enabling continuous improvement and upgradability of the system without requiring complete redesigns.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate charging devices are used to meet different charging needs, then each device can be simple, but the overall system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple charging portions that would traditionally require separate devices are merged into a single integrated system through standardized connectors. This allows different charging functions to be combined in one system while maintaining the simplicity of individual modules, reducing overall system complexity compared to using multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal connector design enables a single charging system to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate devices. By making the charging portions universally compatible and interchangeable, the system consolidates multiple charging options into one modular unit, reducing the number of separate devices needed while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging system includes a first charging portion and a second charging portion. The first charging portion includes at least one first connector and at least one first interface for charging a connected device. The first charging portion is configured to receive electrical current from a power source. The second charging portion includes at least one second connector and at least one second interface for charging a connected device. The at least one first connector is removably coupled to the at least one second connector, thereby removably coupling the second charging portion to the first charging portion to facilitate transmission of electrical current between the first charging portion and the second charging portion.