Multi-port Charger with Universal Connector and Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional battery chargers are inefficient in charging multiple devices simultaneously and lack the capability for rapid charging, often requiring additional connections and mechanical features that increase cost and complexity, while existing methods for determining battery type and capacity are not always accurate or efficient.
Innovation Solution
A multi-port charger with a universal connector and switch system that communicates with each device to select an appropriate fast charge rate, allowing simultaneous or prioritized charging based on detected battery types and capacities, using a variable current source and battery type identifier to manage charging currents effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional chargers use a single connector type for specific battery devices, then charging accuracy is maintained, but device versatility and charging speed are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector design that can physically accommodate multiple battery types (cell phone, digital camera, portable media player) through a single standardized interface. The connector is engineered with sufficient contact points and mechanical flexibility to establish electrical connections across different device form factors, eliminating the need for multiple specialized connectors while maintaining charging capability across diverse battery types.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system incorporates an automated battery identification mechanism that detects battery type and capacity through the universal connector's communication pins. This feedback loop allows the charger to automatically adjust charging parameters (current, voltage, timing) based on the detected battery characteristics, ensuring safe and efficient charging across multiple device types without manual intervention or complex mechanical switching.
2Loss of time
If fast charging is implemented with high current, then charge time is reduced, but battery damage risk and heat generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system dynamically adjusts current delivery based on real-time battery state detection. The controller monitors battery voltage, current draw, and temperature continuously, modulating the charging current in real-time to optimize charge speed while preventing thermal runaway or overcharging conditions. This dynamic control enables fast charging without the fixed high-current approach that causes damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes charging parameters (current magnitude, voltage level, pulse duration) based on detected battery type and state of charge. Different battery chemistries receive different current profiles, and as the battery approaches full charge, the system automatically reduces current to prevent overcharging. This parameter adaptation allows aggressive fast charging when safe and conservative charging when needed.
3Productivity
If multiple devices are charged simultaneously with fixed current allocation, then charging simplicity is maintained, but charging efficiency and speed are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary battery identification and capacity assessment for each connected device before initiating charge current allocation. By detecting battery type, capacity, and initial charge state upfront, the controller can pre-calculate optimal current distribution across multiple devices, enabling efficient simultaneous charging without complex real-time negotiation or user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
Each battery communicates its charging requirements directly to the charger through the connector's communication interface. The charger autonomously processes this information and automatically allocates current resources based on detected battery characteristics, eliminating the need for manual current setting or user prioritization. The system serves itself by making intelligent charging decisions based on real-time battery feedback.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a charger and a plurality of connectors such that a connector includes a switch and a connection between the charger and the connector. The charger is configured to direct a switch associated with one of the plurality of connectors to connect the connector with which it is associated to the charger. The charger is also configured to charge a device connected to the connector according to a type of battery detected in the device. A plurality of devices is charged using a prioritized charging scheme.