Wearable Battery Pack and Data Hub for Multi-Device Power Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable battery packs are heavy, inconvenient to access, and do not offer flexibility in appearance, requiring separate packs for different environments, and struggle to power multiple peripheral devices efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A portable battery pack system with a wearable and replaceable pouch or skin that includes flexible omnidirectional leads and a power distribution and data hub, allowing the battery to be easily accessed and attached to various devices, with interchangeable pouches for different environments and the ability to power multiple devices simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional portable battery packs are used, then power supply capability is provided, but weight increases and convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack is divided into separate modular components: a reusable battery element and interchangeable pouches/skins. Each pouch contains specific connectors and cables for different device configurations, allowing users to swap pouches rather than carrying multiple complete battery packs. This segmentation reduces overall weight while maintaining ease of operation through quick pouch changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal battery element can be paired with multiple different pouches designed for various devices and environments. The pouches contain different connector types and cable arrangements, making a single battery element adaptable to multiple applications. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate battery packs for different devices, reducing weight while preserving operational convenience.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple battery packs are carried for different environments, then adaptability increases, but weight and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal battery element works with multiple interchangeable pouches, each optimized for different environments and devices. The pouches contain environment-specific features such as camouflage patterns, different connector types, and varying cable lengths. This approach provides environmental adaptability while reducing the number of complete battery packs needed from multiple to just one reusable core.
Solution Approach 2:
Different pouches provide localized adaptations for specific environments without requiring changes to the battery element itself. For example, tactical pouches include camouflage patterns and MIL-STD-1913 rail interfaces for military environments, while consumer pouches have different aesthetics and connector configurations. This local quality approach allows environmental adaptability through pouch selection rather than requiring multiple complete battery packs.
3Strength
If rigid battery housings are used, then structural strength is improved, but flexibility and wearability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The pouches use flexible materials such as nylon, polyester, or other durable fabrics that can conform to body contours and movement. These flexible shells protect the battery element while allowing the pack to be worn comfortably on belts, backpacks, or other gear. The flexibility of the pouch material maintains wearability while the internal structure provides necessary strength for the battery component.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the rigid battery element from the flexible pouch housing. The battery element itself maintains its structural strength requirements, while the pouch provides flexible protection and wearability. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently: the battery for strength and the pouch for flexibility and comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for supplying power to at least one power distribution and data hub using a portable battery pack including a battery enclosed by a wearable and replaceable pouch or skin is disclosed, wherein the pouch or skin can be provided in different colors and/or patterns. Further, the pouch or skin can be MOLLE-compatible. The battery comprises a battery element housed between a battery cover and a back plate, wherein the battery element, battery cover, and back plate have a slight curvature or contour. Further, the battery comprises flexible leads.