Universal Adapter for Simultaneous Device Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical recharging solutions are not effective for a wide variety of devices, as they often require specific chargers, are limited in simultaneous charging capabilities, and incur additional user burdens such as managing power bank batteries or precise device alignment for induction charging.
Innovation Solution
A system with a flat recharging surface and adaptive contact zones, combined with a removable adapter that includes conductive input terminals, allowing for direct conduction charging of multiple devices with minimal user effort, and compatibility with various devices through a universal connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If induction recharging is used, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity deteriorates because only a single device can be recharged per coil
Solution Approach 1:
The recharging surface is divided into multiple independent contact zones arranged in rows and columns, allowing multiple devices to be recharged simultaneously across different zones while maintaining the simplicity of placement-based operation
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple contact zones are merged into a single flat recharging surface, enabling simultaneous charging of multiple devices in one location without requiring separate charging stations or complex alignment mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If a power bank battery is used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to managing additional charging devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service recharging where devices are simply placed on the contact zones and charged automatically without requiring users to manage power banks or other intermediate charging devices
Solution Approach 2:
The flat recharging surface with multiple contact zones serves as a universal charging station that can recharge various types of devices simultaneously, eliminating the need for device-specific chargers or power banks
3Adaptability or versatility
If public recharging terminals are used, then adaptability is improved, but productivity deteriorates because only a single device can be recharged per terminal
Solution Approach 1:
The recharging surface is segmented into multiple independent contact zones that can simultaneously charge multiple devices, transforming single-device public terminals into multi-device charging stations
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from vertical stacking or sequential charging to a horizontal two-dimensional array of contact zones, maximizing space utilization and enabling parallel charging of multiple devices
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 efficient and easy simultaneous charging of multiple devices with reduced user effort and minimal additional bulk, improving upon the limitations of existing technologies by providing a versatile and effective charging solution.
Implementation Method 1
The adapter comprises two electrically conductive input terminals forming two surface portions spaced apart from one another by a predetermined distance and adapted to cooperate by direct conduction contact with two contact zones of the recharging surface
Data Source
AI summary
Roaming electronic devices (4) are recharged on a flat recharging surface provided with wide contact zones, by using an adapter (3) which defines two electrically conductive terminals (B1, B2) of small section in an outer face (F2) of a strip of the adapter. For each device to be powered, provision is made:—to stick an inner face of the strip (B) against a face (6) of the device and engage a connector (20) in the device on the side of a bent part (21) of the strip;—to place the adapter between the device and the recharging surface to allow conduction from two of the contact zones, the terminals being spaced apart by a predetermined distance (c) very much greater than their section size; and to selectively supply contact zones with current, for these zones on which the two terminals bear to be in an operational state and allow the recharging via the adapter.