Universal Battery Backup for Barrier Operators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barrier movement operators and cordless power tools often require separate batteries and charging systems, which can be costly and inconvenient, especially for individuals who need to manually operate garage doors during power outages or for those using both types of equipment.
Innovation Solution
A rechargeable battery backup system that integrates a battery charging station with circuitry to supply power to both barrier movement operators and electrically powered equipment, allowing for shared battery use and centralized charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate batteries are used for barrier movement operators and cordless power tools, then each device can be independently powered, but the cost and number of batteries required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack is designed to serve multiple functions: it can power both the barrier movement operator and various cordless power tools. The universal battery interface and standardized voltage output allow a single battery type to replace multiple specialized batteries, reducing the total number of batteries needed while maintaining independent power supply capability for each device
2Ease of operation
If separate charging systems are used for barrier movement operator batteries and power tool batteries, then each battery can be charged independently, but the cost and complexity of charging systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system is merged into a single centralized station that can charge multiple battery packs simultaneously. The charging station provides universal charging capability through standardized charging interfaces, allowing users to charge both barrier movement operator batteries and power tool batteries using one system rather than requiring separate charging devices for each battery type
3Area of stationary object
If a battery charging station is integrated with the barrier movement operator, then space is saved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated charging system is designed as a modular component that can be attached to or integrated with the barrier movement operator. The charging station functions as a separate but connected module, allowing the barrier operator to maintain its primary function while incorporating charging capability. This segmentation approach reduces the overall space required compared to separate systems while managing complexity through functional separation
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 system enables continuous operation of barrier movement operators during power outages and powers cordless tools, reducing the need for multiple batteries and charging systems, thereby minimizing costs and space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
A battery charging station is in electrical communication with at least one rechargeable battery and in electrical communication with the head unit to supply power to the at least one rechargeable battery
Implementation Method 2
The at least one rechargeable battery is removably connectable to electrically powered equipment to provide power to the electrically powered equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a rechargeable battery backup for a barrier movement operator. A barrier movement operator controls the movement of a moveable barrier. The barrier movement operator has a head unit to command the moveable barrier to perform moveable barrier functions. The head unit is supplied power by a power source. A battery charging station is in electrical communication with at least one rechargeable battery and in electrical communication with the head unit to supply power to the at least one rechargeable battery. Circuitry is electrically connected to the battery charging station to supply power from the at least one rechargeable battery to the head unit. The system also includes electrically powered equipment comprising an apparatus for receiving the at least one rechargeable battery. The electrically powered equipment is adapted to be powered by the at least one rechargeable battery to perform a predetermined function.