Universal Power Adapter Daisy Chain Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computing devices often require different power adapters due to varying power requirements, leading to user confusion and limited battery life, especially in situations where the correct A/C power adapter is not available, resulting in inefficient charging and potential data loss.
Innovation Solution
A central charging device system that determines and supplies power requirements to multiple portable devices in a daisy chain configuration, using a universal connection and communication channel to ensure each device receives the appropriate power, allowing multiple devices to be charged from a single outlet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple different A/C power adapters are provided for different devices, then each device can receive the correct power requirement, but the device complexity and user burden increase due to carrying and managing multiple adapters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal power adapter system where a single A/C power adapter can serve multiple portable computing devices with different power requirements. The adapter includes a database storing power requirement information for various devices and communication circuitry to identify connected devices and deliver appropriate power levels, eliminating the need for multiple device-specific adapters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a universal power adapter as an intermediary device between the power source and multiple portable computing devices. This mediator contains intelligence to determine which device is connected, retrieve the appropriate power requirements from its database, and regulate power delivery accordingly, simplifying the power management ecosystem.
2Duration of action of moving object
If power management settings are used to lower power consumption, then battery life is extended, but the productivity and performance of the device are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary charging action by providing access to external power sources before battery depletion occurs. The universal power adapter system allows devices to be charged in advance during meetings or when available, ensuring full battery life is restored without needing to maintain reduced power consumption settings during active use.
3Quantity of substance
If A/C power adapters are shared among multiple devices, then the number of adapters needed is reduced, but the charging efficiency decreases and devices never reach full charge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power allocation where the universal power adapter automatically adjusts its power output based on the specific device connected and its current charging state. The adapter communicates with each device to determine optimal power delivery levels, ensuring efficient charging even when multiple devices are served by a single adapter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the universal power adapter continuously monitors the charging status of connected devices and adjusts power delivery accordingly. The communication circuitry enables bidirectional information exchange, allowing the adapter to receive device identification and power requirement data, and to monitor charging progress to optimize power distribution.
4Quantity of substance
If not enough A/C outlets are available, then multiple devices cannot be charged simultaneously, but providing more outlets increases infrastructure complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple charging functions into a single universal power adapter unit. By consolidating the ability to charge multiple devices with different power requirements into one intelligent adapter, the system eliminates the need for multiple physical outlets or a complex network of adapters, reducing infrastructure requirements while maintaining charging capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and methods for delivering power to a multitude of portable electronic devices is provided. More specifically, the system and methods provide for powering different portable electronic devices through a central charging device. The method of delivering a power supply to a plurality of portable electronic devices includes determining a power requirement for each of the portable computing devices and supplying the power requirement to each of the portable computing devices in a daisy chain configuration using a central power device.