Universal DC Power Adaptor Modular Locking and Programmable Voltage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Military personnel need to carry multiple DC power adaptors for different types of radios and handheld devices, such as the Handheld ISR Transceiver, PRC-148 radio, and PRC-152 radio, each requiring unique mounting and locking features and different output voltages, making it cumbersome to replace batteries with a single external DC power source.
Innovation Solution
A universal DC power adaptor with a modular design that includes an adapter housing, adapter plate assembly, locking plates, alignment features, a printed circuit board with control electronics, and input connectors, allowing it to accommodate different mechanical key mechanisms and operating voltages of the mentioned devices, and is programmable to generate the required output voltage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate DC power adaptors are used for each device type (Handheld ISR Transceiver, PRC-148 radio, PRC-152 radio), then each device can be powered reliably with its specific mounting and locking features, but military personnel must carry multiple types of adaptors, increasing equipment burden and reducing operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single DC power adaptor that can interface with multiple different device types (Handheld ISR Transceiver, PRC-148 radio, PRC-152 radio) through universal mounting and locking features. The adaptor incorporates multiple locking plate configurations and alignment features that can accommodate the unique mounting requirements of each device while maintaining a single standardized power interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics through the programmable control electronics that can dynamically adjust the output voltage to match the specific requirements of each connected device. The adaptor can be programmed via wired or wireless communication to provide different voltage levels (e.g., 12V for PRC-148, 5V for Handheld ISR Transceiver) based on which device is detected and connected.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single universal DC power adaptor is designed to accommodate multiple device types, then equipment burden is reduced and operational efficiency improves, but the adaptor must incorporate complex locking and alignment features to ensure reliable mechanical and electrical coupling with each device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the adaptor into modular components: a base housing, interchangeable locking plates, alignment features, and a printed circuit board assembly. The locking plates can be configured in different arrangements to match specific device mounting patterns, allowing the same base structure to serve multiple device types without requiring complete redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses alignment features as intermediaries between the universal adaptor interface and the device-specific mounting features. These alignment features (such as positioning pins, guide slots, or registration marks) mediate the mechanical coupling process, ensuring proper orientation and engagement while simplifying the interface between diverse device mounting systems and the standardized adaptor.
3Reliability
If the adaptor includes programmable control electronics to provide different output voltages for different devices, then voltage compatibility is ensured, but the adaptor requires additional components and programming interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through automatic device detection and voltage selection. The control electronics can automatically detect which device is connected (via identification circuits, communication protocols, or resistance sensing) and automatically configure the appropriate output voltage without requiring manual intervention or complex programming by the user. The system serves itself by making intelligent decisions based on the connected device's requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control electronics continuously monitor the connected device's power requirements and adjust the output voltage accordingly. Through wired or wireless communication interfaces, the adaptor can receive feedback from the device about its voltage needs and dynamically adjust its output to maintain optimal operating conditions, ensuring reliability while managing complexity through intelligent control.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal DC power adaptor for a PRC-148 radio, a PRC-152 radio, and a Handheld ISR Transceiver, and a method of using same, is disclosed. The presently disclosed universal DC power adaptor includes mounting and locking features that are common to both the PRC-148 radio and the PRC-152 radio. The universal DC power adaptor further includes certain mounting and locking features that are unique to the PRC-148 radio and other mounting and locking features that are unique to the PRC-152 radio. The universal DC power adaptor also provides an output voltage suitable for both the PRC-148 and PRC-152 radios. Such features also are compatible with the Handheld ISR Transceiver, making the universal DC power adaptor compatible with the ISR Transceiver as well. Additionally, the universal DC power adaptor includes programmable control electronics.