Modular Power Adapter Modules for Easy Function Upgrades
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and complexity of replacing power adapters, particularly in-wall installed ones, along with the need for professional installation, make it challenging for users to implement different power control functionalities efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular power adapter system that includes a switching module and a control module, allowing for removable attachment and wireless communication, enabling users to select timing patterns and control power distribution across multiple loads with a central control device, which can pair and authenticate modules for secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a power adapter is replaced to implement different power control functionalities, then the functionality is improved, but the cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter is divided into a base unit and separate functional modules. The base unit contains power supply components, while functional modules (timing control, dimming, etc.) can be independently attached or removed. This segmentation allows users to change functionality by swapping modules rather than replacing the entire adapter, reducing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
A single base unit is designed to support multiple different functional modules through a universal interface. The control device can identify and map multiple power adapters with different modules, enabling one base unit to perform various power control functions depending on which module is attached, thereby improving adaptability without increasing replacement complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an in-wall installed power adapter is replaced, then the functionality is improved, but professional installation is required increasing cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the power adapter into a permanently installed base unit and removable functional modules, the system allows functionality changes without requiring professional installation. Users can simply detach one module and attach another, eliminating the need for electrical work and reducing installation time to minutes rather than hours or days.
Solution Approach 2:
The functional components are extracted from the base unit and placed in separate removable modules. This extraction allows users to change functionality by removing and replacing only the module portion, leaving the installed base unit undisturbed, thereby completely avoiding professional installation requirements for functionality changes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional functionality is added to power adapters, then user control capabilities are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Control capabilities are segmented into separate functional modules (timing control module, dimming module, etc.) that can be independently attached to the base unit. This allows users to add only the specific control capabilities they need without carrying unnecessary complexity, and the modular structure keeps the overall system organization simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The power adapter system is made dynamic through removable modules that can be added or removed based on user needs. The control device dynamically identifies and adapts to different module configurations, allowing the system complexity to change flexibly rather than being fixed at maximum, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A plurality of power adapters configured to apply power to loads is described. The plurality of power adapters may comprise a first power adapter configured to apply power to a first load, the first power adapter having a first recess for receiving a first module that is removably attached to the first recess; a second power adapter configured to apply power to a second load, the second power adapter having a second recess for receiving a second module that is removably attached to the second recess; and a control device adapted to identify the first power adapter and the second power adapter; wherein the control device is adapted to map the first power adapter and the second power adapter based upon locations of the first power adapter and the second power adapter.