Power Adapter with Integrated Circuit for Bi-directional Charging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions lack a convenient and portable method to charge or transfer data between devices without relying on external power sources, limiting the flexibility and portability of device charging and data sharing.

Innovation Solution

A power adapter with integrated bus connectors and control logic that enables current and data transfer between external devices, utilizing various connector types and a receptacle with a keyring attachment for easy carrying and storage, allowing bi-directional power and data sharing without an external power source.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a power adapter uses an external power source, then charging reliability is improved, but portability and convenience deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecharging reliabilityVSAvoidportability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The power adapter enables one electronic device to charge another device directly through bidirectional power transfer. The system uses an integrated circuit to control current flow between two bus connectors, allowing the devices to serve each other as power sources without requiring external power infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If the power adapter supports multiple connector types, then device compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidconnector variety

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power adapter incorporates multiple bus connector types (including USB connectors and other electronic connectors) on both its first and second ends, enabling it to interface with various electronic devices. The integrated circuit automatically manages power distribution across different connector types without requiring complex manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If the power adapter includes integrated control logic, then power transfer efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower transfer efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol logic

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated circuit embedded in the power adapter contains control logic that monitors and regulates current flow between the two bus connectors. This feedback mechanism ensures optimal power transfer efficiency by adjusting current distribution based on the power needs of connected devices, preventing overcharging or power waste.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10700537B2Power adapter

Publication Date: 2020.06.30 ABEHASERA BENYAMIN

AI summary

A power adapter has a main body, a first bus connector, and a second bus connector. The bus connectors are coupled to each other by an integrated circuit. The power adapter draws current from a first power source, such as a smartphone, to a second power source, such as an electronic cigarette. The power adapter snaps into a keyring receptacle for easy use and transportation. The receptacle has a hinged retention member for retaining spare electronic smoking device cartridges or other items.