Moisture Detection in Charging Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices are prone to damage when exposed to moisture, as existing charging systems lack moisture detection capabilities, leading to potential short circuits and permanent damage when power is applied, even if the device is wet.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a moisture detection system within the charging circuit that prevents power from being applied until the device is dry, using a vacuum scavenger and moisture sensor to detect humidity levels, ensuring safe charging and protecting the device from electrical damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If power is applied to an electronic device without moisture detection, then the device can be charged and operated, but the internal electronics may be shorted and permanently damaged due to moisture intrusion
Solution Approach 1:
The moisture detection system performs a preliminary check before power is applied to the device. The controller activates the moisture detector to assess moisture levels within the device housing, and only permits charging operation if the detected moisture level is below a predetermined threshold, preventing short circuits before they can occur
Solution Approach 2:
The moisture detection system acts as an intermediary between the power source and the electronic components. The controller receives moisture level data from the detector and uses this information to control the power flow, serving as a protective mediator that prevents harmful power application when moisture is present
2Reliability
If a moisture detection system is integrated into the charging circuit, then device protection from moisture damage is achieved, but the charging system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The moisture detection system is integrated into the existing charging circuit rather than being implemented as a separate system. The controller that manages charging operations also handles moisture detection and decision-making, merging multiple functions into a single control unit and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it manages the charging operation, activates the moisture detector, processes moisture level data, and controls power flow based on detection results. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, simplifying the overall charging system
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Prevents damage to electronic devices by ensuring they are dry before applying power, effectively protecting internal components from moisture-related issues and extending the device's operational lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum scavenger and moisture sensor to detect humidity levels
Implementation Method 2
a vacuum scavenger and moisture sensor to detect humidity levels
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses for detecting when an electronic device, preferably a portable electronic device (PED) in some embodiments, has been exposed to moisture, and inhibiting the flow of electrical power to the electronic device when the moisture is too high or increasing too fast are disclosed. Embodiments sample air within the device, measure the moisture in the sampled air, inhibit the connection of electrical power to the device if the moisture exceeds a threshold, and permit the connection of electrical power to the device if the moisture is below a threshold. Some embodiments measure the moisture in the ambient air to improve effectiveness. Other embodiments allow resetting of a tripped condition. Other embodiments include constant sampling of air from within the device to assist drying, and inhibiting application of power to the device until the device is sufficiently dry. Still other embodiments interrupt power from the battery within the device.