Modular Power Adapter Expansion for Laptop I/O and Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing need for users to connect various external devices to thinner electronic devices, such as laptops, requires multiple adaptors for different types of devices, leading to a clutter of separate power connectors and limited input/output capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular power adaptor system that includes a base unit and expansion modules, allowing for easy mechanical attachment and detachment, providing expanded input/output capabilities, power charging, and data transfer/communication, eliminating the need for separate power connectors for each device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate adaptors are used to connect different external devices, then the electronic device can support more I/O capabilities, but the device complexity and clutter of separate power connectors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate adaptors into a single modular power adaptor system. The base unit integrates power connection functionality, while expansion modules provide additional I/O capabilities (USB ports, HDMI, audio jacks, etc.). This merging eliminates the clutter of multiple separate connectors while maintaining full I/O versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular power adaptor is designed as a universal solution that can connect to various external devices through different expansion modules. The base unit with power connector serves as a universal platform, and modules can be attached/detached to provide different functionalities (charging, data transfer, audio, video), making one device serve multiple purposes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate adaptors are used to provide different functions, then the functionality is expanded, but the ease of operation decreases due to managing multiple adaptors
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor system is segmented into a base unit and separate expansion modules. Each module provides specific functionality (USB charging, HDMI output, audio jack). Users can attach only the modules they need for current tasks, making the system easy to operate by reducing the number of connected components while maintaining full functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows dynamic reconfiguration of the adaptor system. Expansion modules can be easily attached and detached based on current needs, making the system adaptable and easy to operate. The magnetic or mechanical connection mechanisms enable quick module changes without tools, enhancing ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If a single modular power adaptor is used with expansion modules, then the ease of operation is improved by eliminating multiple adaptors, but the device complexity of the modular system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into standardized base unit and expansion modules with uniform connection interfaces. This segmentation, while creating a modular system, actually reduces operational complexity because each module is independent and can be attached/detached without affecting other components. The standardized interfaces simplify the modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit serves as a universal platform with power connection capability. Expansion modules are designed with universal compatibility to the base unit's interface. This universality reduces the complexity of designing and manufacturing multiple different adaptor types, as one base unit can work with various modules through standardized connections.
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptor may include a base modular unit that includes a plurality of surface connectors, a first port and circuitry. At least one surface connector may couple to an expansion modular unit. Circuitry or logic may provide information from the first port to the at least one surface connector.