(almost) Universal Charger

Nathania Gail Go 10 Traymoor St. Kingston, Ontario K7L 4K8 T 613.484.7594 nathania.go@gmail.com http://www.behance.net/nati/frame

problemPhone chargers are one of the most wasted resources with the influx of new phone models. Each phone manufacturer has their own specifications. On top of that, these

companies such as Nokia or Blackberry (kudos to Apple for having a universal charger to similar Apple gadgets) have different types of charger per model.

Why is this important?• The constant battle to show off the sleekest charger leads to more e-waste build up in the world

• It has become inconvenient for us (especially those with more than one phone unit) to keep up with the changing technology

- In cases where we forget our charger, it is becoming highly difficult for us to find another person with a similar charger

- Carrying many different types of charger is too bulky and messy

use case of mobile phonesIn coming up with a human-centric solution for phone chargers, we should first look into where or how mobile phones are used.

TravelingWe carry our mobile phones wherever we go. However, since different countries have different specifications for power outlets, it is not guaranteed that our charger will be

compatible with what’s available. As such, we end up bringing an adaptor, which adds to the bulk of our luggage.

On the other hand, we sometimes experience the lack of power outlets in random places. In those instances, we feel vulnerable especially when our phones are running low in

power. For those with more than one mobile phone, they usually switch the sim card between phones, only to one’s dismay when he finds out that most of the data is still

stored in the other phone.

Synchronizing with computerWith so much data stored into our mobile devices, phones are regularly synched with our computer to back up data.

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recommendationGiven this unmet need, I would like to propose an (almost) universal phone charger. Features of this charger will address the following:

ConvenienceThis phone charger will house most commonly used chargers (e.g. rounded, flat, etc.) on one side. These power connectors can also be used to transfer power from one

mobile device to another.1

The power connectors will be on the other side. These can be connected to power outlets or USB hubs. The prongs in the plug will be adjustable to fit outlets in several

countries:

1. Angled flat prong - Australia, China, New Zealand and Pacific Islands

2. Straight flat prong - Caribbean Islands, Japan, Taiwan, and USA

3. Rounded prong - Africa, Australia, and Europe

Also installed in front are mini-solar panels that will permit for solar charging in instances when no outlets are available. It would also be ideal if the charger can store solar

energy. The stored solar energy can be used to charge mobile devices when one is traveling at night or camping in the wilderness.

ClutterNot only is this charger ideal for traveling because we will carry one (or two) less chargers, this compact charger is also ideal because:

1. It has no messy wires - wires can be recoiled inside the device

2. It will have no dangling objects - at the back of the charger are molds in different shapes to hold the different types of charger/plug

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1 Note: It is assumed here that mobile users bring with them more than one phone

l imitationThis idea is not without a limitation. First, this charger might not be able to serve markets in England, Hong Kong, Singapore and Middle East as their power sockets usually

require for 3-pronged plug.

There are definitely more than three types of chargers in the world; however, this device will only serve the most commonly used chargers.

This device is vulnerable to phone manufacturers changing the specifications of the mobile phone and charger again.

implementationGovernmentThe government should provide phone manufacturers producers with subsidies or even tax credits on carrying this device. This may seem like an unwise idea especially with

the overwhelming issues plaguing the government in healthcare; however, this initiative will be justified by the millions of savings from recycling operations or landfill

management.

Mobile phone manufacturersMobile phone manufacturers should also agree to not change the specifications of their phones for at least two years. Again, tax credits can be granted to them as a form of

incentive. Hopefully, their participation will serve as a social proof and influence other small mobile phone players to retrofit their products to suit this (almost) universal charger.

With economies of scale, the cost of this device will be much cheaper than the current unit cost each of these phone manufacturers are paying for their own chargers.

Moreover, standardizing phone charges across different mobile units will create a more efficient production line.

(almost) Universal Charger

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an i l lustration(almost) Universal Charger

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solar panel

mold of plug/USB/charger to hold

actual pieces

recoilable wire

(almost) Universal Charger

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in use indicator

silhouette of

charger shapes

flexible plugs

no dangling objects as actual

pieces are hidden at the back

allows transfer of power from one phone to another

insideback

side

front

3.5”

.75”