Receptacle with Proximity Sensor for Accessory Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to efficiently store and manage accessory devices, such as keyboards and mice, in conjunction with computing devices when they are not in use, while ensuring easy retrieval and maintaining connectivity for enhanced user experience.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a receptacle on the computing device that includes a proximity sensor and wireless charging coil, allowing for automatic detection, power management, and connectivity establishment with the accessory device upon insertion, enabling seamless storage and retrieval while maintaining functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If accessory devices are stored separately from the computing device, then storage flexibility is improved, but retrieval efficiency and connectivity management deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle integrates storage space for accessory devices directly into the computing device housing, nesting the storage function within the main device. This allows accessory devices to be stored inside a compartment of the computing device itself, improving retrieval efficiency while maintaining storage flexibility through the integrated design
2Reliability
If manual connection steps are required for accessory devices, then connection reliability is improved, but user operation complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting when an accessory device is inserted into the receptacle and proactively establishing wireless connections, powering the accessory device, and configuring settings before the user needs to use it. This eliminates manual connection steps while maintaining reliable connections through automated protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device and accessory device autonomously manage their own connection, power, and configuration without requiring user intervention. The system self-services by detecting the accessory device presence and automatically handling all connection parameters, making the operation simple for users while maintaining high reliability
3Productivity
If accessory devices remain powered on continuously, then readiness for use is improved, but power consumption deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic sensing to detect the presence of accessory devices in the receptacle and activates power and connectivity only when needed. Instead of continuous operation, the system periodically checks for accessory devices and enables power supply and wireless connections only when detection occurs, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining readiness when devices are present
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
This solution simplifies the storage and use of accessory devices by automatically detecting and connecting them, conserving power, and ensuring they are ready for use when needed, enhancing user experience and device management.
Implementation Method 1
a receptacle for receiving the accessory device when the accessory device is not in use
Implementation Method 2
The receptacle is to receive the accessory device and sense, either actively or passively, the presence of the accessory device within the receptacle
Data Source
AI summary
An example electronic device that includes a computing device further including a display and a housing. The housing has a front side and a back side, and the display is disposed on the front side. In addition, the electronic device includes a receptacle disposed on the back side of the housing. The receptacle is to receive an accessory device. Further, the electronic device includes a sensor in the receptacle to communicate with the computing device. The sensor to sense the presence of the accessory device within the receptacle. In response to the sensor sensing the presence of the accessory device within the receptacle, the computing device is to change a power state of the accessory device.