Pivoting Charger Holder for Continuous Multi-Position Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless devices and their batteries often require charging in specific housings and orientations, which can limit their portability and storage options.
Innovation Solution
A pivotably attached charger with device and battery holders that allow continuous charging in multiple positions, including upright orientations, reducing the overall profile and enhancing storability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If devices are charged in a fixed orientation, then charging reliability is improved, but storability and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device holder is made pivotable, allowing it to dynamically change orientation from a first position (devices extending upward) to a second position (devices extending downward). This dynamic adjustment enables the charger to adapt to different storage space requirements while maintaining reliable charging contact throughout the rotation range.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it can charge devices in upright orientation for stable charging, and rotate to a lowered position for compact storage. The electrical contacts are designed to maintain connectivity throughout the full range of motion, making the single device capable of both reliable charging and space-efficient storage.
2Reliability
If devices are charged in a fixed orientation, then charging stability is improved, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable device holder provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the system to transition between a stable charging position (first position with devices upright) and a compact storage position (second position with devices downward). The electrical contacts maintain stable connection throughout this dynamic range, enabling portability without sacrificing charging stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If device holder is made pivotable for multiple positions, then storability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device holder incorporates a pivot mechanism that enables rotation between first and second positions. This dynamic element adds minimal complexity compared to the benefit of improved storability, as the pivot allows the entire device holder assembly to rotate as a unit while maintaining electrical connectivity through flex cables or rotary joints.
Solution Approach 2:
When rotated to the second position, the device holder positions the charged devices downward, effectively nesting them within or below the main charger body. This nesting arrangement maximizes space utilization and improves storability without requiring additional external storage structures.
4Reliability
If electrical contacts maintain connection throughout rotation, then charging continuity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical contacts utilize flexible printed circuit boards (FPC) or flat cable assemblies that can bend and flex to accommodate the pivotable device holder's rotation. These flexible connections maintain continuous electrical supply throughout the full range of motion from first to second position, ensuring charging continuity while using commercially available flexible cable technologies that balance manufacturing ease with functional reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging apparatus including a device holder disposed within a cavity, wherein the device holder is pivotably attached to a base and is configured to receive a first device type and continuously charge the first device as the device holder rotates from a first position to a second position and throughout rotation from the first position to the second position. The charging apparatus may include a charging element disposed within the cavity that is configured to receive and charge a second device type.