Electric Window Covering Charging System with Threshold Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electric window coverings face challenges in convenient and safe battery charging, with exposed charging cables posing hazards and requiring tools for high installation locations, and existing solutions do not efficiently manage power consumption by only sending warning notices when the battery is low.

Innovation Solution

A charging system with an extensible device that allows for easy charging of electric window coverings at various heights, using a first remaining power detection circuit to send a warning notice only when the battery level reaches a predetermined threshold, thereby conserving power and avoiding unnecessary consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a power transmission wire is used to connect the power supply device to the electric window covering, then electricity can be transmitted to power the motorized tube, but the wire appears abrupt and spoils the overall appearance of the room

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectric power transmissionVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the power transmission function from a visible wire and relocates it to an invisible medium (wall cavity or decoration). The power supply device is separated from the window covering, with only a small connector visible at the window covering, while the main power unit is hidden elsewhere in the room, eliminating the aesthetic problem of exposed wires.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary structure (wall cavity or decoration element) to carry the power transmission function. This intermediary hides the power transmission path within the building structure or decorative elements, allowing electricity to be transmitted without visible wires affecting the room's appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Shape

If the power supply device is installed far from the electric window covering, then the aesthetic appearance is improved by hiding wires, but the installation locations are limited by safety regulations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidinstallation location flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the power supply device location-independent by allowing it to be installed in various positions (wall cavities, decorations, furniture) while maintaining its function. The extensible charging device with flexible cable enables the power supply to be placed anywhere within reach, providing universal adaptability to different installation scenarios and safety regulation constraints.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a flexible, extensible charging cable that can dynamically adapt its length and configuration based on the distance between the power supply device and the window covering. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to accommodate various installation locations and safety requirements while maintaining functional connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Loss of information

If the warning notice is constantly displayed to inform users about power status, then the user is reminded to charge the electric window covering, but the power consumption of the power supply device is unduly increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower status informationVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic or event-driven power status monitoring instead of continuous display. The warning notice is activated only when the battery level reaches a predetermined threshold, rather than continuously displaying power status. This periodic action significantly reduces power consumption while still providing necessary information to users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameter of the display from continuous operation to threshold-triggered operation. By monitoring battery level and only activating the warning display when voltage or charge level falls below a set threshold, the system provides necessary information while minimizing energy consumption during standby periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Ease of operation

If an extensible charging device is used to reach high installation locations, then charging becomes convenient without tools, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging convenienceVSAvoidcharging device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates an extensible mechanism in the charging device that can be preliminarily extended to reach high installation locations before charging begins. The flexible cable or telescopic structure is designed to reach the required height in advance, allowing users to charge the window covering without needing ladders or other tools, while the extension mechanism remains integrated and relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11146085B2Charging system for electric window covering
Publication Date: 2021.10.12 NIEN MADE ENTERPRISE CO LTD
  • US11146085B2 patent drawing
  • US11146085B2 patent drawing
  • US11146085B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A charging system for an electric window covering, which includes a motorized assembly controlling the movement of the electric window covering, and a power supply device including a rechargeable power unit and a first remaining power detection circuit is disclosed. The charging system comprises a charging device which provides power to the power supply device, a comparison module, and a notification unit. The first remaining power detection circuit detects the potential magnitude of the power unit, and the detected value is transmitted to the comparison module to be compared. If the potential magnitude is less than a predetermined threshold, a warning is presented at a notification unit. By actively presenting the warning to the user when the power of the power unit is low, the power supply device and the charging system can achieve the objectives of providing an active notification and extending the run-time of the power unit.