Portable Generator Pull-String Mechanism for High-Power Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable electrical energy generators, such as GravityLight, have limited electrical output and awkward charging mechanisms, making them inefficient for charging modern devices and requiring expensive and inefficient re-chargeable batteries.
Innovation Solution
A portable apparatus with a drive mechanism featuring an elongate flexible member as a closed endless loop, allowing users to apply mechanical input by pulling downward, coupled with a re-chargeable battery and a light source, enabling more efficient energy storage and output, and incorporating a USB socket for versatile device charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hand crank charging mechanism is used, then the device can be operated with one hand, but the mechanical input power is limited and the operation is awkward
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hand crank mechanical system with a pull-string mechanism. The user pulls the elongate flexible member downward, which rotates the reel through a ratchet mechanism, driving the generator. This substitution allows for greater mechanical input power while maintaining ease of operation, as pulling is more ergonomic and allows two-handed operation.
2Power
If the electrical output is increased beyond the limits of mass weight and height, then enough electrical energy can be output to charge modern devices, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a re-chargeable battery that is charged in advance by the generator. The user pulls the flexible member to generate electrical energy, which is stored in the battery for later use. This preliminary action allows the device to provide sufficient electrical output for charging modern devices without requiring complex real-time power conversion systems.
3Power
If an elongate flexible member with at least 30 cm exposed portion is used, then both hands can be used to supply mechanical input power, but the device dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elongate flexible member serves multiple functions: it is the user interface for inputting mechanical energy, it engages with the ratchet mechanism to ensure unidirectional rotation, and it can be stored coiled within the device housing when not in use. The minimum 30 cm exposed portion enables two-handed operation for increased power input, while the coiled storage maintains portability.
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 apparatus provides increased electrical energy storage and output, is more ergonomic and efficient in operation, and reduces reliance on kerosene lamps by offering sufficient power to charge multiple devices and provide light for extended periods.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical generator configured to convert the mechanical energy into electrical energy to charge the battery
Implementation Method 2
a re-chargeable battery configured to store the electrical energy generated by the electrical generator
Implementation Method 3
a light source configured to provide illumination in response to electrical energy from the battery
Implementation Method 4
wherein the drive mechanism is configured to supply the said mechanical action to the electricity-generating device, wherein said mechanical action is provided by a user applying a downward force to the elongate flexible member
Data Source
AI summary
A portable apparatus for generating electricity is provided comprising an electrical energy-generating device for generating electrical energy in response to input mechanical action. The apparatus comprises a drive mechanism having an elongate flexible member provided as a closed endless loop. A portion of the elongate flexible member is exposed so as to enable a user to grasp and pull said portion downward by a distance of at least 30 cm. The drive mechanism supplies the said mechanical action to the electricity-generating device, wherein said mechanical action is provided by user applying a downward force to the elongate flexible member so as to cause the elongate flexible member to move with respect to the mounting element. A re-chargeable battery is further provided for storing the electrical energy generated by the electrical energy-generating device. A mounting element enables the apparatus to be supported at a suspended position relative to the ground during use.