GB2516993A

GB2516993A - Timed mobile device charger

Info

Publication number: GB2516993A
Application number: GB1320201.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Fraser William Andrew Dixon
Original assignee: PHONE IN Ltd
Current assignee: PHONE IN Ltd
Priority date: 2013-08-02
Filing date: 2013-11-15
Publication date: 2015-02-11
Also published as: GB201320201D0; GB201313864D0

Abstract

A charger for mobile electronic devices A which has a built-in timer, shutting off power to the device at the end of a preset period, thus eliminating wasted power consumption and overcharging of the device's battery. The charger includes a cable C for connection to a mobile device via a plug, the plug including a user-actuated control switch B to activate the timer, the circuitry of which is built into transformer body D.

Description

Description Title

Timed Mobile Device Charger

Introduction & Background to the invention

The invention is to be used in the charging of mobile telephones, tablets, Sat-Nay's and other such gadgetry. The batteries for such devices are deteriorated by overcharging, greatly reducing their useful lifespan. This charger will differ from existing products on the market by featuring a timer which, when activated by the user, allows the device to charge only for a predefined period hence eliminating any potential overcharging and subsequent damage to the battery. The activation is from a switch built-in to the device-plug end of the apparatus, meaning that it also eliminates the need to turn the charger on at the plug where it could potentially be obscured. As this means the charger is only drawing a "full-load" from the mains while the timer is active, it also has both environmental and moneysaving benefits.

Introduction to the drawings

Figure i shows how the unit relates to a mobile device and a mains electrical socket. It illustrates that the activation switch is incorporated into the plug which connects the mobile device, rather than the transformer body. Also shown are cable-strain-relief points, which are a standard feature of any good quality electronic charger.

Figure 2 illustrates how the product could operate in a typical setting, allowing the user in question to still charge their device without having to move furniture/obstructions to gain access to the plug socket.

Figure 3 shows the mobile-device end of the transformer in closer detail. The activation switch is clearly shown, alongside a possible LED indicator light. A microUSB connector is shown in the example as this is cunently the most common connector, although other connectors could be used. The body of the plug is also tapered in the image; this streamlining would allow the transformer to be connected to devices that may be wearing a protective case.

Detailed background & description of the invention

From over 16 years experience in the mobile phone industry, I have viewed a problem which has caused constant issues; that of over charging a mobiles battery. From the initial mobiles which featured nickel cadmium batteries, which suffered a memory affect' if not fully discharged prior to charging, to the modern lithium polymer batteries which although designed to be topped-up', they can not handle excessive charging. This leads to the consumer prematurely needing to replace the battery in the device.

With the dawn and huge popular ty of powerful smartphones, battery life on handsets is decreasing for users of such devices. This has resulted in many users plugging their mobiles into charge overnight, every night. This causes premature deterioration in the battery as it is rarely allowed to fully discharge and the resultant 7+ hours dafly charging means that the user will quickly find themselves needing to have the battery in the device replaced. This also means that a number of users have a charger connected to the mains 24/7 as the socket may not be easily accessible. This itself creates another problem of wasted energy as the charger will still draw power from the supply even with no device connected.

To solve these issues, I have designed the Timed AC Transformer. This is a 1 lO-240v input transformer with 5v lamp ouput. The transformer body also houses a 2 hour timer which is activated from a control switch at the output end of the transformer( igl &3). The output end is a micro USB B plug with a tapered protective sunound fig3). Once the 2 hours have elapsed, the supply is disconnected hence protecting the phone from over charging and the consumer from wasted energy. The transformer should draw minimal power from the supply once the timer has completed.

The Timed AC Transformer addresses these issues.

* I lO-240v input support allows international use (with relevant country adaptor) * The 5 volt output at 1 amp means that it supports the latest smartphones power req rements * The micro USB B connection is the industry standard (fig3) for charging mobile telephones * A 2 hour charge time is sufficient most smartphones to fully charge at the specified current * The timer control switch will be built-in to the micro USB B end of the transformer (fig3), thus making it readily accessible. This saves accessing awkward plug sockets to disconnect power (fig2).

* The micro USB B plug surround will be tapered, allowing the Timed AC Charger to connect to devices which may be in a protective case (fig3).

PossiNe modifications & Variations * Battery thermistor input with automatic charger shutdown for when battery temperature exceeds limits * Compliant with the JEITA Li-Ion battery charging temperature specification for product safety compliance * The control switch may function through an existing free core in the cable, alihough the addition of a core may be introduced during the testing process * LED function indicator to display when charging is activated- * Stht-in interchangeable plug modules for different country electricity supply formats The unit itself will be finished in a pastel turquoise colour. Not orfly will this enable it to stand out from existing chargers available on the marketplace. which are either black or white, it also gives reference to the two natural' colours which are commonly associated with energy-efficiency (blue) and the environment (green).

*Apple Inc iPhones do not use the inicmUSB B format, although adaptors are readily available -The Timed AC Transformer may ako include a function indicator at the output end in the form of an LED (fig3). This LED will flash briefly once the timer is activated. No other indicators will be present on the transformer as light and sound would not be suitable for night use (imagine trying to sleep with a light blinking at you for 2 hours from the corner of the room) The unit would ideally be screwed together at the transformer body, while the device-plug end would clip/snap together. Glue or another adhesive could be used, although may not provide such a safe and permanent fix.

Advantages of the invention The alternative to using this product would be a standard charger which would either be supplied with the device or purchased at a later date. Such standard chargers mean that the user could: * Overcharge their device and subsequently spofi the performance of the battery.

* End up leaving the charger connected to a mains socket permanently, resulting in higher energy bifls as they draw too much unnecessary power.

* Have to find "free" plug sockets when wanting to charge their device.

* Have transformers on show and as clutter, where this invention means that the bulk of the unit can be hidden away and quickly and conveniently activated when use is required.