Universal Sealed USB Module for Multi-Device Charging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electric devices require multiple safety certifications for each variant, leading to increased R&D time, costs, and complexity, especially when compact designs are needed for universal applicability.

Innovation Solution

A universal module with interchangeable USB or outlet units, designed to fit various devices, which has passed all relevant safety standards, allowing it to be used across different electric devices without the need for additional certifications, and can be combined in various configurations to meet specific power requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a universal module design is implemented to reduce safety certification requirements, then device complexity and development costs are reduced, but ensuring the module meets all necessary safety standards for diverse applications becomes more challenging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety certification complexityVSAvoidsafety standard compliance
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal sealed USB unit module that can be integrated into multiple different electric devices (LED lights, power strips, wall outlets, surge protectors, etc.) without requiring separate safety certifications for each application. The module is designed with standardized dimensions, electrical specifications, and safety features that make it universally compatible across device types, thereby reducing certification complexity while maintaining reliability through pre-validated safety performance.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If the sealed USB unit module is designed with compact dimensions for universal fit, then adaptability to various devices is improved, but the internal space for electrical components and safety mechanisms is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidmodule internal volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a compact sealed module design where electrical components, circuitry, and safety mechanisms are nested within a standardized housing. The module contains integrated USB ports, power conversion circuitry, and protective elements in a space-efficient arrangement that fits within uniform dimensional constraints while providing all necessary functional capabilities for safe operation across diverse applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The sealed USB unit module utilizes a compact housing with integrated structural and protective functions. The sealed construction provides both mechanical protection and electrical isolation in a thin-walled design that maintains structural integrity while minimizing overall module volume, enabling the compact form factor required for universal adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Reliability

If the sealed USB unit module integrates all necessary electrical components and safety mechanisms, then reliability and safety are improved, but manufacturing cost and production complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety performanceVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent separates the USB charging functionality and safety mechanisms into a distinct, self-contained sealed module that can be manufactured independently and then integrated into various electric devices. This segmentation allows the module to be produced in volume with standardized processes, reducing per-unit manufacturing costs while ensuring consistent safety performance across all applications where the module is deployed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11271408B2Desk top item with LED means has USB-units or USB-module to charge other electric or digital data devices
Publication Date: 2022.03.08 CHIEN AARON
  • US11271408B2 patent drawing
  • US11271408B2 patent drawing
  • US11271408B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Desk top items with LEDs or another light source also include at least one USB-unit or USB-module and, optionally, additional outlet-units, to supply power to other electric or digital devices such as a smart phone or digital data device. The USB-unit(s), USB-module(s) or outlet-unit(s) fit within or are installed anywhere on the desk top item's housing, including anywhere on a base, pole, bar, stand, step, contour, edge, or wall of the housing.