USB-Powered NiMH Battery Charging in Digital Cameras
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Solution Overview
Problem
Digital cameras powered by rechargeable batteries often require access to a standard wall outlet or a PC for charging, and users may face issues when these resources are unavailable, leading to inconvenience and limited battery life compared to non-rechargeable batteries.
Innovation Solution
A digital camera design that includes internal circuitry to charge rechargeable NiMH batteries via a USB port, allowing connection to external power sources like PCs or wall outlets without removing the batteries, and differentiates between rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries to prevent mistaken charging, enabling flexible and user-friendly charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If rechargeable batteries are used in digital cameras, then battery life can be extended through recharging, but users require access to wall outlets or PCs for charging which limits flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The digital camera performs self-charging by utilizing its own USB port to accept power directly from a USB power source. The camera's internal battery is recharged through the USB interface without requiring external charging devices or wall outlets, enabling the device to service its own power needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The USB port in the digital camera serves multiple functions: it enables data transfer between the camera and computer, and simultaneously serves as a charging port by accepting power input directly from USB power sources. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate charging ports or external charging equipment.
2Duration of action of moving object
If external chargers are used to charge rechargeable batteries, then batteries can be recharged, but users must carry external chargers and cables which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The charging function is merged with the existing USB data interface of the digital camera. The same USB port that is used for data transfer is also used for power input, combining multiple functions into a single interface and eliminating the need for separate charging equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The digital camera charges its own battery using its built-in USB port, eliminating the need for external charging devices. The camera independently accepts power through its USB interface without requiring users to carry or connect external chargers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the digital camera accepts both rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries, then user options are increased, but the charging system must differentiate between battery types to prevent mistaken charging
Solution Approach 1:
The system accommodates both disposable non-rechargeable batteries and rechargeable batteries in the same camera. When non-rechargeable batteries are detected, the charging function simply remains inactive, allowing the camera to work with inexpensive disposable batteries without requiring complex prevention mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system automatically detects whether rechargeable batteries are present and activates charging only when appropriate. The system self-regulates by monitoring battery characteristics and enabling charging functionality only when rechargeable batteries are detected, eliminating the need for manual user configuration.
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
This design extends battery life by using rechargeable NiMH batteries, allows for compact dual battery options, and eliminates the need for external chargers or cables, providing a more flexible and user-friendly charging experience.
Implementation Method 1
first internal circuitry configured to receive power from a universal serial bus (USB) port associated with an external power source and to charge the rechargeable NiMH batteries
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a digital camera configured to be powered by rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. The digital camera includes one or more rechargeable NiMH batteries, and first internal circuitry configured to receive power from a universal serial bus (USB) port associated with an external power source and to charge the rechargeable NiMH batteries without removing the rechargeable NiMH batteries from the digital camera.