Power Assembly Module with Multi-Source Charging and Switched Outputs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Residents in rural or off-grid environments face challenges with unreliable access to central power systems, requiring innovative solutions for powering electronic devices beyond traditional battery or sunlight sources.
Innovation Solution
A power assembly module that includes a battery management system, multiple charge paths, and output discharge paths, featuring a switch for on-demand power delivery, a display for charge level indication, and adaptable output voltages to accommodate various devices, including AC and DC power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional battery or sunlight sources are used in off-grid environments, then power can be provided to electronic devices, but the power supply is unreliable and limited in availability
Solution Approach 1:
The power assembly is divided into multiple independent battery cells that can be connected in series or parallel configurations. This segmentation allows the system to provide reliable power by combining multiple energy storage units, while also enabling adaptability through different connection arrangements to match various power requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The power assembly incorporates multiple charge paths that accept different input power sources (solar panels, wall adapters, vehicle chargers) and can power various types of electronic devices. The system universally handles both AC and DC inputs, and provides multiple output configurations to accommodate diverse device requirements, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple charge paths and output discharge paths are implemented, then adaptability to various devices is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power assembly incorporates a switch that dynamically connects or disconnects battery cells from output terminals based on operational requirements. This dynamic switching capability allows the system to adapt between different power delivery modes (series or parallel configurations) without requiring multiple fixed output paths, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining device compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery management system performs preliminary assessment of power requirements and pre-configures the appropriate charge and discharge paths before actual power delivery. This preliminary action allows the system to present a simplified interface to users while internally managing the complexity of multiple charge paths and output configurations.
3Productivity
If battery management system with multiple charge paths is used, then charging efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery management system automatically monitors battery charge levels, cell voltages, and current flow, and autonomously manages the charging process without requiring complex external control circuits. The system self-regulates the charge paths based on real-time battery status, improving charging efficiency while keeping the control structure relatively simple through intelligent autonomous management.
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
Provides reliable and adaptable power solutions for diverse electronic devices, ensuring efficient charging and discharging while protecting batteries from overcharging, over-discharging, and excessive current, thereby addressing the limitations of traditional power sources in off-grid settings.
Implementation Method 1
A power assembly receives and stores power for on-demand use. A module within the power assembly includes a battery management system that receives power from an input terminal, and manages the charging and power delivery of a battery pack.
Data Source
AI summary
A power assembly module provides multiple interfaces for accessing a battery. A power input of the power assembly module can receive power from a variety of external sources. Photovoltaic panels, car batteries, or any other suitable DC power source can be used to charge the battery within the power assembly module. A switch provided on a housing of the module allows for activation or deactivation of power delivery from the battery, at outputs of the power assembly module. In some embodiments, the power assembly module includes a single power output that provides power from the battery using a cabled connector. Additionally, the power assembly module includes a power distribution element that provides power from a standard plug outlet for powering certain appliances that receive power using a standardized electric plug terminal.