Portable Device Automatic Power Saving Mode Transition

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing portable electronic key systems require complex user operations to switch modes and do not effectively enter power-saving modes when not in use, leading to battery power drainage.

Innovation Solution

A portable device equipped with a microcomputer, vibration sensor, and radio communication capabilities that automatically shifts to a power-saving mode after a predetermined time of non-use, based on whether the device is being carried or not, and whether the vehicle door is locked, thereby reducing power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the portable device continuously supplies power to the electronic component, then the device is ready for immediate use, but battery power is drained continuously

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice readinessVSAvoidbattery power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic power management by switching between two operational states: a ready state where the electronic component is fully powered and operational, and a power-saving state where power supply is interrupted. The system dynamically transitions between these states based on usage conditions, allowing the device to adapt its power consumption profile to actual operational needs rather than maintaining a fixed power supply state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs periodic monitoring of usage conditions through the determination unit, which continuously assesses whether the device should remain in the ready state or transition to power-saving mode. This periodic evaluation creates a rhythm of power state transitions that balances readiness requirements with power conservation, checking conditions at regular intervals rather than maintaining constant power supply

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Use of energy by moving object

If a power saving mode is implemented, then battery power consumption is reduced, but the device requires complex switch operations to activate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery power consumptionVSAvoidmode switching operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The determination unit automatically assesses usage conditions and makes decisions about power state transitions without requiring user intervention. The system monitors its own operational state and environmental conditions, then self-determines when to switch between ready and power-saving modes, eliminating the need for users to perform complex switch operations while still achieving power conservation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback loop where the determination unit continuously monitors usage conditions and adjusts power supply accordingly. Information about device usage patterns and operational state feeds back to the power supply control mechanism, enabling automatic adjustments that reduce power consumption without requiring user input or complex operational sequences

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Extent of automation

If the device automatically detects non-use state, then power saving is achieved without user operation, but the detection mechanism increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic power savingVSAvoiddetection mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The determination unit serves multiple functions within the device: it monitors usage conditions, evaluates power state requirements, and controls power supply transitions. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single integrated unit, the system achieves automatic power saving capabilities without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as the determination unit leverages existing sensors and processing capabilities for multiple purposes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The device automatically enters power-saving mode without user intervention, significantly reducing battery power consumption and extending battery life by approximately two times compared to prior art.

Implementation Method 1

a vibration sensor that detects vibration of the portable device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Implementation Method 2

wireless communication is performed between the portable device and an in-vehicle device installed in the vehicle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation:

Data Source

PatentEP3192949B1Portable device
Publication Date: 2021.06.30 KK TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHO
  • EP3192949B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3192949B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

A portable device (2) having a built-in electronic component has normal mode, in which the electronic component functions, and power saving mode, in which power less than that consumed in the normal mode is consumed. The portable device (2) is provided with: a use state detection unit (21) that detects the in-use state or the non in-use state of the portable device (2); and a mode control unit (21) that shifts the mode of the portable device (2) to the power saving mode, in the cases where a fixed time has elapsed after the use state detection unit (21) detected that the state of the portable device (2) is shifted to the non in-use state.