Multi-Station Battery Docking for Backup Pump Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backup systems for sump pumps fail to efficiently interface and recharge various battery technologies and form factors, making it inconvenient to provide continuous power during utility-supplied AC energy outages.
Innovation Solution
A multi-station recharging unit with control circuitry that accommodates different rechargeable battery types and configurations, allowing for quick coupling and convenient energy transfer, including lithium ion, nickel cadmium, and nickel metal hydride batteries, and automatically switching to battery power during AC power loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single docking station is used for battery recharging, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate various battery technologies and form factors
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is designed with multiple docking positions that can accommodate different battery types (lithium ion, nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride) and form factors. Each docking position includes universal electrical contacts and control circuitry that can interface with various battery technologies, allowing a single station to perform multiple recharging functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station is divided into multiple independent docking positions, each capable of accepting and recharging a separate battery. This segmentation allows different battery types to be docked simultaneously at different positions without interfering with each other, while sharing common control and power distribution circuitry
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple docking stations are provided for different battery types, then battery compatibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
All docking positions use a unified docking interface design with standardized electrical contacts and mechanical engagement features. This universal interface allows batteries of different types to be coupled to any docking position using the same procedure, maintaining ease of operation while supporting multiple battery technologies
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuitry, power distribution system, and charging management functions are merged into a single integrated control unit that serves all docking positions. This consolidation allows multiple docking stations to function as one coordinated system, providing battery compatibility across different types while maintaining simple, uniform operation through a single control interface
3Ease of operation
If battery recharging is not automated, then the control system is simple, but the convenience and reliability of power switching is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuitry continuously monitors the power status of each docking position and automatically detects when utility power is unavailable. When AC power is lost, the system automatically switches to battery power without requiring user intervention. The system also automatically manages battery charging cycles, monitoring charge levels and controlling power flow to optimize recharging while preventing overcharge conditions
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
Enables seamless energy transfer from AC to DC power, keeping batteries charged and ensuring continuous operation of sump pumps across various battery technologies and form factors, enhancing reliability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
In the presence of utility supplied AC power the unit can include an appropriate rectification circuit for purposes of providing DC-type electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
A backup pump control unit in accordance with the invention can incorporate a plurality of docking stations for different rechargeable batteries
Data Source
AI summary
A backup pump control unit can incorporate ports to receive rechargeable batteries such as lithium ion, nickel cadmium or nickel metal hydride batteries. Multiple units can be coupled together to increase the available, stored electrical energy. In the absence of AC-type input power, the batteries can energize a backup pump.