Portable Charging Unit With Internal Battery And Multiple Ports

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for portable systems that can charge multiple personal electronic mobile devices in various public locations without the need for access to limited public USB ports or AC outlets, while being durable and versatile.

Innovation Solution

A portable charging apparatus with internal batteries and multiple electrical ports, allowing units to be stacked and relocated for charging, featuring options like Bluetooth and solar-powered charging, and equipped with theft deterrents and versatile connectivity options.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If AC adapters are used to charge mobile devices, then charging can be provided at fixed locations, but the chargers are not portable and require access to electrical receptacles

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecharging location flexibilityVSAvoidportability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The charging system is divided into separate functional modules: a base unit that connects to power sources and one or more portable charging units that can be moved independently. This segmentation allows the charging functionality to be separated from the power source connection, enabling portability while maintaining charging capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A portable charging unit with an internal battery acts as an intermediary between the AC power source and the mobile device. The charging unit stores energy from the base and provides power to devices anywhere within its operational range, eliminating the need for direct connection to electrical receptacles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If public USB ports are provided for charging, then charging access is available in public areas, but the number of ports is very limited and locations are restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecharging accessibilityVSAvoidnumber of charging ports

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The portable charging unit is designed to serve multiple functions and multiple users. A single charging unit can charge different mobile devices sequentially or simultaneously, and can be moved to serve different locations, effectively multiplying the charging capacity beyond the physical number of ports.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a fixed two-dimensional array of charging ports to a mobile three-dimensional charging solution that can be relocated to any position within the service area, adding the dimension of spatial flexibility to charging accessibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If solar-powered chargers are used, then portable charging is provided, but the charging capability is limited by weather conditions and sunlight availability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveportable charging capabilityVSAvoidcharging consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The charging unit pre-charges its internal battery when connected to the base unit or when sunlight is available, storing energy in advance for later use. This preliminary energy storage ensures that charging capability is available on demand, regardless of current weather conditions or sunlight availability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes its energy source parameter dynamically - switching between AC power from the base unit, solar power when available, and stored battery power when needed. This parameter flexibility allows the charger to maintain reliable operation across varying environmental conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 individuals to charge their devices in diverse settings without relying on AC outlets, providing a durable and versatile solution for multiple device charging with extended battery life and convenience.

Implementation Method 1

a battery that draws power from the base and supplies power to the electrical port of the charging unit

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBattery (electricity): Battery (electricity)

Implementation Method 2

The portable units may be solar-powered

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSolar energy conversion: Solar Energy

Data Source

PatentUS11050271B2Apparatuses and methods for charging electronic devices

Publication Date: 2021.06.29 KULICK LORIE L

AI summary

A charging apparatus for simultaneously charging multiple mobile devices. The apparatus includes a base having means for connecting the base to an electrical power source, at least one charging unit supported by the base and having at least one electrical port configured for supplying power to a mobile device, and a battery that draws power from the base and supplies power to the electrical port of the charging unit.