Power Connector with Electromagnetic Switch for Standby Power Elimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile device chargers continue to consume standby power even after batteries are fully charged, leading to inefficiency and reduced battery life, as they remain connected to power outlets and consume energy as heat, contributing to a significant portion of residential electric bills.
Innovation Solution
An electromechanical power connector with a power sensing circuit and electromagnetic switch that automatically disconnects power to the charger when the battery is fully charged, preventing standby power consumption and allowing for self-unplugging from electrical outlets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the power adapter remains connected to the wall outlet after battery charging is complete, then the device can be quickly recharged without manual intervention, but standby power is continuously consumed and battery life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power connector performs self-service by automatically detecting when battery charging is complete and autonomously disconnecting from the power outlet without requiring user intervention. The microcontroller monitors charging status and controls the electromagnetic relay to open the circuit, enabling the connector to serve itself in managing the charging cycle and eliminating standby power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through the microcontroller that continuously monitors the charging status of the battery and provides real-time control signals to the electromagnetic relay. When the battery reaches full charge, the feedback signal triggers the relay to disconnect power, creating a closed-loop control system that automatically responds to charging conditions and prevents energy waste.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the power adapter is continuously connected to the power outlet, then power is always available for charging, but the adapter generates heat and consumes energy even when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The power connector operates periodically by connecting to the power outlet when charging is needed and disconnecting when charging is complete or when standby would occur. The microcontroller manages periodic charging cycles, enabling the connector to be active only during necessary periods and inactive during standby periods, thus reducing continuous energy consumption while maintaining charging availability when required.
3Loss of energy
If users manually unplug the charger after charging, then standby power consumption is eliminated, but the operation becomes tedious and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The power connector performs self-service by automatically detecting when battery charging is complete and autonomously disconnecting from the power outlet without requiring user intervention. The microcontroller monitors charging status and controls the electromagnetic relay to open the circuit, enabling the connector to serve itself in managing the charging cycle and eliminating standby power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the manual mechanical action of unplugging with an automated electromagnetic control system. The microcontroller-driven electromagnetic relay automatically opens the electrical circuit when charging is complete, substituting the mechanical user action with an automated electromechanical system that achieves the same energy-saving result without requiring user involvement.
4Loss of energy
If a power sensing circuit and electromagnetic switch are added to enable automatic disconnection, then standby power consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microcontroller serves multiple functions within the power connector: it monitors battery charging status, controls the electromagnetic relay, manages power disconnection timing, and coordinates the overall charging process. By consolidating these control functions into a single multi-functional component, the system achieves automatic standby power elimination without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic relay acts as an intermediary component that bridges the microcontroller's control signals and the high-power electrical circuit. The relay isolates the low-power control electronics from the high-voltage power lines, enabling automatic disconnection functionality while protecting the sensitive microcontroller and reducing the complexity of direct power control circuitry.
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 solution effectively reduces standby power consumption, prolongs battery life, and eliminates the need for users to manually unplug chargers, thereby enhancing power management and reducing energy waste.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic switch configured to open or close a circuit between a power outlet and the power adapter
Implementation Method 2
a power sensing circuit configured to sense when the battery is fully charged
Data Source
AI summary
A power connector for use in charging a battery of a device is provided. The power connector has an electromagnetic switch having terminals used to supply power from an external power source to a power adapter which is connected to the battery of the device. A power sensing circuit is coupled between the terminals of the electromagnetic switch and the power adapter, wherein the electromagnetic switch is configured to shut off power supplied to the power adapter when the power sensing circuit detects that the battery is fully charged. A reset mechanism is configured to mechanically activate the electromagnetic switch to start supplying power to the power adapter.