Suitcase Integrated Charging System with Power Strip

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing charging solutions for electronic devices during travel are inadequate as they often require access to limited airport outlets and do not provide a convenient means to charge devices when electrical outlets are unavailable.

Innovation Solution

A portable charging system integrated into a suitcase with a power strip and a battery, allowing electronic devices to be charged via USB ports and three-prong outlets, along with a switch to control power distribution, and a power cord for external charging of the battery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a portable charging system is integrated into a suitcase, then charging convenience during travel is improved, but the weight and volume of the suitcase increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging convenienceVSAvoidsuitcase weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The charging system integrates a battery, power strip, and USB ports directly into the suitcase structure, combining the charging function with the luggage. This merging eliminates the need for separate charging devices and provides convenient charging during travel while distributing the weight within the suitcase's existing structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The suitcase is designed with multiple charging interfaces including USB ports and three-prong outlets, allowing it to serve multiple charging functions for different types of electronic devices. This multi-functionality improves charging convenience across various device types while justifying the added weight through enhanced utility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple charging outlets and USB ports are provided, then charging versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging versatilityVSAvoidcharging system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The charging system incorporates both USB ports and three-prong outlets within the suitcase, enabling it to charge various electronic devices including smartphones, laptops, and other electronics. This multi-functional approach provides charging versatility for different device types without requiring multiple separate charging solutions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The power strip is divided into multiple independent outlets and USB ports, each capable of charging devices separately. This segmentation allows flexible power distribution to multiple devices simultaneously while keeping the control structure simple through individual switches for each outlet.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Duration of action of moving object

If a battery with high capacity is used, then duration of charging action is improved, but the weight of the suitcase increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging durationVSAvoidsuitcase weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The battery is pre-charged before travel through the power cord connected to external power sources. This preliminary charging action ensures the battery is ready to provide extended charging duration during travel without adding weight during the actual charging process, as the energy is stored in advance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The battery is integrated into the suitcase structure rather than being a separate component. This merging combines the energy storage function with the luggage, providing extended charging duration while distributing the battery weight within the suitcase's existing frame and structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables convenient charging of electronic devices, such as smartphones and laptops, during travel without reliance on available electrical outlets, ensuring continuous power supply and easy battery recharging.

Implementation Method 1

A battery 26 is provided and the battery 26 is coupled to the suitcase 12. The battery 26 is positioned within the suitcase 12. The battery 26 is electrically coupled to each of the outlets 22.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBattery (electricity): Battery (electricity)

Implementation Method 2

A power cord 28 is coupled to and extends outwardly from the suitcase 12. The power cord 28 is electrically coupled to the battery 26.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS10074999B2Portable charging system
Publication Date: 2018.09.11 WATSON VALENCIA
  • US10074999B2 patent drawing
  • US10074999B2 patent drawing
  • US10074999B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A portable charging system includes a piece of baggage that has at least one outer pocket. A charging unit is provided and the charging unit is coupled to the piece of baggage. At least one electronic device is selectively electrically coupled to the charging unit to charge the electronic device.