Modular External Power System with Daisy-Chain Battery Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable information handling systems face challenges with power management due to varying power consumption needs, as traditional external power adapters are bulky and inconvenient, and carrying extra batteries is cumbersome, especially when access to AC power is limited.
Innovation Solution
A modular external power system with self-contained modules that include a control module for managing power transfer between battery and AC-to-DC adapter modules, allowing for daisy chain charging and discharging through a common power connector, such as a USB 3.0 Type C port, enabling flexible power management and reduced size and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If traditional external power adapters are used to provide sufficient power for processing-intensive applications, then power capacity is improved, but device size and portability deteriorate due to larger footprint
Solution Approach 1:
The external power adapter is divided into separate functional modules: a control module and one or more battery modules. These modules can be used independently or combined, allowing users to select only the battery modules needed for portability without carrying the entire adapter assembly, thus reducing footprint while maintaining power capacity when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of power delivery by selectively coupling battery modules to the control module. The control module can draw power from one or more battery modules based on real-time power requirements, enabling adaptive power management that optimizes both portability and power capacity
2Duration of action of moving object
If multiple external battery modules are carried to extend power capacity, then duration of action is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome carrying and management
Solution Approach 1:
Power capacity is segmented into multiple standardized battery modules that can be carried separately in a distributed manner (e.g., in pockets or bags) rather than as a single bulky unit. The control module automatically manages power draw from these distributed modules, simplifying user operation while extending total battery life
Solution Approach 2:
The battery modules are designed with universal interfaces that allow them to be used in multiple configurations: individually with the control module, in series for extended duration, or charged simultaneously from the control module. This multi-functionality enables flexible power management that adapts to different usage scenarios without requiring different equipment
3Power
If AC-to-DC adapter module is always included in external power source, then power capacity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates when AC power is unavailable due to unnecessary weight and size
Solution Approach 1:
The AC-to-DC adapter module is separated from the battery modules, creating independent functional units. Users can carry only the battery modules for portable use and add the AC adapter module only when AC power availability is certain, eliminating unnecessary weight and size during travel while maintaining full power capacity when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The external power source configuration is made dynamic and adaptable to the usage context. The control module can operate with zero, one, or multiple battery modules coupled to it, and the AC adapter module can be selectively added or removed based on whether AC power is available, optimizing the balance between power capacity and portability for each situation
Data Source
AI summary
A portable information handling system battery module has a self-contained housing having a battery charger, integrated rechargeable batteries and plural ports to transfer power, such as USB Type C ports having bi-directional power transfer capability. A cable couples first battery module port to a portable information handling system port to provide power to the portable information handling system and accept power from the portable information handling system. Plural additional battery modules daisy chain to the first battery module to accept power from and provide power to the portable information handling system. Power transfer is coordinated with communications through the ports, such as by a USB power transfer protocol supported at the information handling system and each battery module.