Universal Battery Charger Using RFID for Adaptive Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current battery chargers are designed for specific types of rechargeable batteries and cannot adapt to different chemical materials, requiring separate chargers for each type.
Innovation Solution
A universal battery charger system utilizing an RFID tag to communicate the optimal charging configuration for a rechargeable battery, allowing the charger to select the appropriate voltage and current based on information stored in the RFID tag, enabling charging of multiple battery types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a battery charger is designed for a specific battery type with fixed charging parameters, then the charging reliability for that battery type is improved, but the adaptability to different battery types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The battery charger is designed with multi-functionality to charge different types of rechargeable batteries (NiCd, NiMH, Li-ion, Li-polymer) using a single device. The system incorporates automatic battery type detection and adaptive charging parameter selection, allowing one charger to perform multiple charging functions that previously required separate dedicated chargers for each battery chemistry type.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging parameters (voltage, current, charging algorithm) are dynamically changed based on the detected battery type. The system automatically adjusts these parameters to match the optimal charging requirements for each specific battery chemistry, ensuring reliable charging across different battery types while maintaining safety and performance standards.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate dedicated chargers are used for each battery type, then the charging precision for each battery type is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring multiple separate chargers for different battery types, the invention consolidates multiple charging functions into a single universal charger device. This reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining precise charging capabilities for each battery type through automated parameter adjustment and intelligent detection algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The charger incorporates automatic battery type detection and self-configures the appropriate charging parameters without user intervention. The system autonomously identifies the battery chemistry and selects the optimal charging algorithm, voltage, and current settings, eliminating the need for manual configuration and reducing operational complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal charger with multiple charging configurations is designed, then the adaptability to different battery types is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal charger automatically detects the battery type and self-configures the appropriate charging parameters without requiring complex user setup or manual selection. The system autonomously manages the multiple charging configurations internally, providing adaptability to different battery types while keeping the user interface simple and the operational complexity low.
Solution Approach 2:
The charger incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor battery characteristics during insertion and charging processes. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts charging parameters and selects appropriate algorithms, enabling adaptability to different battery types through intelligent control rather than complex hardware configurations.
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 system allows for the efficient charging of various battery types by automatically determining the optimal charging parameters, reducing the need for multiple chargers and ensuring safe and effective battery recharging.
Implementation Method 1
The universal battery charger uses an RFID reader to read the RFID tag on the device
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for a universal battery charger is presented. An RFID tag on a battery-powered device communicates battery information to the charger to allow the charger to optimally charge the battery. The battery charger has a charging cord with a charge plug at an end of the cord to connect the charging cord to a port on a device. The charging cord contains an RFID antenna near the end of the cord. The RFID antenna has a limited reading range. When the charge plug is inserted into a charging port on a battery-powered device, an RFID reader uses the RFID antenna to read the information stored on the RFID tag. Based on the RFID tag information, a charging selector selects a current and voltage to be output to charge the device through the device port.