Secure Charging Apparatus with Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of mobile electronic devices face inconvenience due to the need to stay with their devices while charging, as existing charging methods require direct access to a wired power supply, limiting their mobility and usability.
Innovation Solution
A secure charging apparatus with authorized user access, confirmation of device connection, and charging status, featuring a locking mechanism and mechanical connectors that allow secure, unattended charging in public areas, using a moveable actuator and electronic detectors to manage the locking state and prevent cable movement in undesirable directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a user charges their mobile electronic device using a wired power supply, then the device can be recharged, but the user must stay with the device during charging
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the charging process into distinct phases: authentication phase where the user authorizes charging, connection phase where the device is physically connected to the charging port, and monitoring phase where the system tracks charging status. This segmentation allows the user to complete the authentication phase and leave, while the system handles the remaining phases autonomously.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system is designed to serve itself by automatically detecting device connection through electronic detectors, monitoring charging status through current measurement, and managing the locking mechanism without continuous user intervention. The system autonomously confirms charging acceptance and maintains security throughout the process.
2Ease of operation
If a user allows their device to charge unattended in a public area, then user mobility is maintained, but device security is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A secure locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user and the device. The lock physically secures the device in the charging port, creating a barrier that prevents unauthorized access or removal. The locking mechanism is controlled by the system based on authentication status, providing automatic security without requiring user presence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback monitoring through electronic detectors that track device connection status and charging current. This real-time feedback allows the system to detect anomalies, confirm successful charging, and maintain appropriate locking states, providing security through active monitoring rather than passive trust.
3Reliability
If the system monitors charging status continuously, then charging reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical monitoring mechanisms with electronic detection methods. Electronic detectors measure electrical parameters such as current flow to determine charging status, substituting mechanical switches, physical indicators, or manual verification with simpler electronic sensing that provides more reliable and automated monitoring.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the invention is an apparatus for determining the initiation of a charging process for a secure charging apparatus. The apparatus has circuitry for authorising a user, circuitry for confirming connection of a device, and circuitry for confirming charging of the device.