Universal Power and Data Hub for Multiple Electronic Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a solution that can efficiently provide power and communicate data to electronic devices with self-contained storage, particularly one that can simultaneously or separately connect to multiple devices using a compact and flexible power and data interface.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus includes a combined external power coupling and data interface module, a substantially flat cable module, and a second data and power interface module, enabling simultaneous or separate power and data communication to multiple electronic devices via a flexible cable with multiple wire pairs, and a DC converter module for voltage regulation, along with a memory storage interface for data communication and backup.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a compact and flexible power and data interface is used, then ease of operation and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple interface modules and cable assemblies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DCPSA combines multiple functions into a single apparatus: it can simultaneously provide power to multiple electronic devices, communicate data bidirectionally, and support various connector types (USB, Apple, proprietary). The system acts as a universal hub that consolidates what would otherwise require separate power adapters and data cables, thereby improving ease of operation despite the internal complexity of managing multiple interface modules.

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

2Productivity

If multiple electronic devices are connected simultaneously, then productivity and versatility are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveproductivityVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The DCPSA is divided into distinct functional modules: a power coupling module for connecting to power sources, multiple data and power interface modules for different device types, and a control system. This segmentation allows each module to be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled into the final product, thereby reducing overall manufacturing difficulty while enabling simultaneous connection to multiple devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If auto-detection of power requirements is implemented, then reliability and adaptability are improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system continuously monitors the power requirements of connected electronic devices through feedback signals from the interface modules. Based on this real-time information, the system automatically adjusts the power distribution to match each device's needs, ensuring reliable operation without manual configuration. The feedback mechanism enables adaptive power management that improves reliability while keeping the control logic relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS8740641B2Apparatus and methods for providing power and communicating data with electronic devices
Publication Date: 2014.06.03 ADVANCED WIRELESS INNOVATIONS LLC
  • US8740641B2 patent drawing
  • US8740641B2 patent drawing
  • US8740641B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of a system, topology, and architecture for providing power and transceiving data to electronic devices having an interface are described generally herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.