Wall-Mounted Modular Charger That Preserves Outlet Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing charging systems for electronic devices are often inflexible, requiring separate base units and cables for each type of device, leading to clutter and inefficiency in storage and usage.

Innovation Solution

A modular wall-mounted charging device with interchangeable charging tips and multiple auxiliary ports, including USB, Thunderbolt, HDMI, and Ethernet connectors, that can accommodate various devices without obstructing wall outlets, allowing for simultaneous charging and adaptability to different voltages and configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a standardized base unit with a single type of port is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate multiple types of electronic devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different device typesVSAvoidcharging system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The base unit is designed with multiple auxiliary ports (USB Type-C, USB Type-A, micro-USB, Lightning) integrated directly into the housing, allowing a single device to charge multiple types of electronic devices simultaneously. This eliminates the need for separate base units for different device types while maintaining structural simplicity.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate base units are used for different devices, then each device can be charged optimally, but storage space and outlet space are consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice charging capabilityVSAvoidwall outlet space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple charging functions that would traditionally require separate base units are merged into a single integrated device. The base unit combines AC charging, USB Type-C charging, USB Type-A charging, micro-USB charging, and Lightning charging in one unit, allowing up to 5 different devices to be charged simultaneously from a single wall outlet.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a wall-mounted charger is added, then additional charging capability is provided, but it intrudes into the user environment and blocks the wall outlet

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging functionalityVSAvoidenvironmental integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The charging device is designed to nest within the wall outlet recess, with the main body inserted into the outlet and only the auxiliary ports extending outward. This nested configuration provides multiple charging capabilities while minimizing intrusion into the surrounding environment and maintaining access to the wall outlet area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS11837891B2Modular charging system and wall-mounted charging device and modular power devices
Publication Date: 2023.12.05 MISCHIEVOUS LLC
  • US11837891B2 patent drawing
  • US11837891B2 patent drawing
  • US11837891B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates a modular charging system including a wall mounted outlet preserving charger and charging additional accessories, such as battery blocks, wireless device chargers, supporting chargers for wearable devices such as watches, and car chargers, each for use independently or in combination with electronic devices. The present invention typically includes a wall charger with one or more electrical outlets on the front face so that the use of the wall outlet is not lost. The wall charger of the present invention is suitable for use in any major country and may be adapted to the outlet configuration and voltage of those countries.