Portable Power Unit with Inductive Charging and Charge Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for portable and convenient electrical power solutions that can efficiently charge small electronic devices, such as phones and media players, in locations away from traditional wired power supplies, while also being compact and easily rechargeable.
Innovation Solution
A portable electrical power unit with a rechargeable battery or capacitor, featuring multiple electrical connectors, a power switch, and a charge level indicator, which can be placed on surfaces and recharged via direct contact or inductive power transmission, allowing for simultaneous charging of multiple devices and providing a visual indication of the remaining charge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a portable power unit with rechargeable battery is designed to be compact and transportable, then portability and ease of carrying are improved, but the energy capacity and charging duration are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power unit is recharged in advance by placing it on a charging surface with charging contacts that automatically establish electrical connection when the unit is positioned there. This preliminary charging action allows the unit to be ready for use without requiring manual plug-in operations at the point of need, thus maintaining portability while ensuring energy availability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrical connectors are provided for simultaneous charging of multiple devices, then versatility and functionality are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power unit incorporates multiple electrical connectors of different types (such as USB connectors and other standardized connectors) on its surface, allowing it to simultaneously charge multiple different types of portable electronic devices. This multi-functional design enables a single unit to serve various charging needs without requiring separate dedicated chargers for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging functionality is segmented into multiple independent connectors, each capable of operating separately. This allows the power unit to provide independent charging channels for different devices, and users can selectively use only the connectors needed for their current charging requirements, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If a charging connector is provided for recharging the power source, then the power unit can be recharged and reused, but the housing design becomes more complex with additional openings
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connector opening is integrated into the housing structure in a way that combines the charging access function with the overall housing design. The charging connector is positioned to utilize existing housing features, and the opening is designed to be minimal and aesthetically integrated, so that the recharge capability is added without significantly increasing structural complexity or compromising the compact portable design.
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 portable power unit provides a compact, self-contained solution for charging small electronic devices, suitable for various locations, including commercial establishments, with the ability to recharge and indicate charge levels, ensuring continuous power availability.
Implementation Method 1
The electrical power source is in electrical communication with the electrical connector via the power switch
Implementation Method 2
The power unit receives or conveys electrical power via direct-contact electrical terminals or via inductive power transmission
Data Source
AI summary
A portable electrical power unit includes a housing defining an interior region that receives a power source, such as a rechargeable battery or capacitor, and one or more electrical connectors that are accessible at or through outer surfaces of the housing. The housing includes a substantially flat base for resting atop generally horizontal surface, and may include a power switch for selectively energizing the outlets. Optionally, a charging indicator provides a visual indication of the current capacity or charge level of the onboard power source. The power unit may receive or convey electrical power via direct-contact electrical terminals or via inductive power transmission, and may include additional features such as a location-detecting circuit operable to detect and generate a signal in the event that the power unit is moved out of a predefined area.