Modular Power Adapter With Extender Cable
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices face challenges with battery life and cable management, particularly when traveling internationally, due to the need for lengthy AC cords and bulky region-specific power adapter plugs.
Innovation Solution
A modular power adapter with a 'pig-tail' style AC cable extender that integrates cable management and provides universal plug compatibility, allowing for compact travel and use in tight spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional power adapter with integrated AC cord and region-specific plug adapter is used, then power delivery is ensured, but the device becomes bulky and difficult to manage during travel
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter system is divided into separate modular components: a main power adapter body and detachable region-specific plug adapters. This segmentation allows users to separate the plug adapter from the main body, reducing the bulk carried during travel while maintaining full plug compatibility across different regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The main power adapter body is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple region-specific plug adapters. This universality allows a single main body to work with various plug types (US, UK, EU, etc.), eliminating the need for multiple complete adapter assemblies and reducing overall travel burden.
2Ease of operation
If an AC cord of sufficient length is used to reach distant outlets, then power access is ensured, but cable management becomes difficult and the setup occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The AC cord is designed with dynamic flexibility, allowing it to be extended when needed to reach distant outlets and collapsed or coiled when not in use. This dynamic capability enables the cord to adapt between providing maximum reach and minimizing space occupation, unlike fixed-length rigid solutions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a bulky duck-head style interface adapter is carried for international travel, then regional plug compatibility is ensured, but portability and travel convenience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The region-specific plug adapter is extracted as a separate, lightweight component from the main power adapter body. Users only need to carry the small plug adapter when traveling to a specific region, rather than carrying a bulky integrated adapter assembly, significantly reducing travel burden while maintaining plug compatibility.
4Ease of operation
If the power adapter includes integrated cable management features, then cable organization is improved, but the adapter body becomes larger and less portable
Solution Approach 1:
The AC cord is designed to nest within or alongside the power adapter body when not in use, similar to a nested doll structure. This nesting capability allows the cord to be compactly stored with the adapter without requiring additional external management structures, maintaining portability while providing cable organization.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a modular power adapter assembly for a portable electronic device. According to one example embodiment, the assembly includes a power adapter housing and an extender member connected to the adapter housing at a first end region thereof. Furthermore, a plug adapter is configured to receive power and removably attach to a second end region of the extender member. A cable is attached to the adapter housing to supply power to a connected portable electronic device.