Wireless Charging Cradle Automatic Database Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for synchronizing databases between wireless devices and computer stations require user intervention and a tethered connection, which is inconvenient and inefficient, especially when recharging wireless devices.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus and method that automatically synchronize databases using a wireless interface, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, when the wireless device is positioned at a charging cradle, eliminating the need for a wired connection and user initiation by detecting the cradle through charging energy or other mechanisms and powering the transceiver only during synchronization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a tethered connection is used to synchronize databases, then reliability of data transfer is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual connection requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer reliabilityVSAvoidsynchronization operation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically initiates database synchronization when the wireless device is detected on the cradle, without requiring user intervention. The controller automatically establishes communication connectivity and transfers database information between the cradle storage and wireless device storage, making the system self-serve the synchronization task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The charging cradle combines multiple functions: it provides power charging through electrical contacts, stores database information in its storage device, and automatically synchronizes databases with wireless devices placed upon it. This merging of charging and data synchronization functions into a single integrated system improves both reliability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Stability of the object's composition

If a tethered connection is used for synchronization, then data transfer stability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional connection requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer stabilityVSAvoidconnection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless device utilizes its existing wireless transceiver for multiple purposes: wireless communication during normal operation and database synchronization when on the cradle. The cradle's controller also performs multiple functions: detecting device presence, managing power charging, and coordinating database synchronization. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining stable data transfer.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The charging cradle acts as an intermediary between the wireless device and the external database storage system. It contains a storage device that holds database information and uses its controller to manage the synchronization process, mediating the data transfer between the wireless device and external storage without requiring direct user-managed connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Use of energy by moving object

If synchronization is performed manually, then energy consumption is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to user intervention requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidsynchronization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs database synchronization periodically or event-driven based on detected changes in the database, rather than continuously or only on manual user initiation. The controller monitors for database changes or device placement events and automatically triggers synchronization only when necessary, optimizing both energy usage and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary detection of device presence on the cradle and automatically initiates synchronization before the user would need to manually request it. This preliminary automated action ensures data is synchronized in advance, improving productivity without requiring continuous user intervention or excessive energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Ease of operation

If wireless interface is used for synchronization, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of connection deteriorates compared to tethered connection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection convenienceVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The charging cradle serves as a stable intermediary base station with a controller that manages the wireless communication connection. By establishing the wireless link from this fixed, controlled environment rather than from the mobile wireless device, the system maintains higher connection reliability while still enjoying the ease of wireless operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically manages the wireless connection establishment and maintenance during synchronization without user intervention. The controller on the cradle handles connection setup, data transfer coordination, and connection termination, making the wireless interface as reliable as wired connections through automated connection management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8364649B2Apparatus, and associated method, for facilitating synchronization of a wireless device
Publication Date: 2013.01.29 MALIKIE INNOVATIONS LTD
  • US8364649B2 patent drawing
  • US8364649B2 patent drawing
  • US8364649B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus, and an associated method, facilitates synchronization of a wireless device, such as a portable mobile station. The wireless device is positioned at a support dock, such as a charging cradle of a charging assembly. Positioning of the wireless device at the support dock is detected, such a through detection of application of charging current to the wireless device. Detection of the positioning causes automatic initiation of synchronization operations. Synchronization operations are initiated and then carried out.