# Device That Adjusts Power for Charging Multiple Devices > This 2016 patent describes a system that intelligently adjusts the power supplied to charge multiple devices, ensuring one device gets a steady charge while another can receive a variable amount. - **Patent:** US 9368994 - **Original title:** Dynamic charging device and method thereof - **Owner:** Wistron Corp - **Granted:** 2016 - **Status:** Active - **Times cited:** 0 - **Field:** consumer_electronics, semiconductors, software ## What it does This patent describes a device that manages power for charging. It has a detection module that senses an incoming power signal (like current or voltage). This signal goes to a control module, which creates a control signal. An output module then uses both the input signal and the control signal to adjust the power. The key is how it handles a 'load module' which connects a 'master control device' and a 'portable electronic device' in parallel. The portable device gets an adjustable current, while the master device gets a fixed current. For example, imagine charging a laptop (master control device) and a phone (portable electronic device) from the same power source. This device would ensure the laptop gets a stable, fixed amount of power it needs to operate, while the phone's charging rate can be adjusted dynamically, perhaps to prevent overcharging or to prioritize power flow. ## What it does NOT cover - Charging systems that only manage a single device. - Charging systems that do not adjust the power dynamically based on feedback or control signals. - Systems where both devices receive a fixed amount of power. - Systems where both devices receive an adjustable amount of power. - Charging methods that do not involve parallel connection of devices. ## The clever bit The innovation lies in the ability to simultaneously manage different power requirements for multiple devices connected in parallel. It intelligently dedicates a fixed, stable power stream to a primary device while allowing for dynamic, adjustable power delivery to a secondary device, optimizing the charging process for both. ## Real-world examples 1. Smart power adapters for laptops and phones 2. Multi-port USB charging stations 3. Docking stations for portable electronics ## Why it matters This patent addresses the growing need for efficient power management in a world with many connected devices. As more electronics require charging, systems that can intelligently distribute power become crucial for user experience and device longevity. This technology is relevant to power adapters, charging stations, and even in-vehicle charging systems. ## Frequently asked questions ### What does Device That Adjusts Power for Charging Multiple Devices cover? This 2016 patent describes a system that intelligently adjusts the power supplied to charge multiple devices, ensuring one device gets a steady charge while another can receive a variable amount. ### Who owns patent US 9368994? Wistron Corp owns this patent, granted in 2016. ### When does this patent expire? This patent is expected to expire on March 12, 2033, when the invention enters the public domain. ### What problem does this patent solve? This patent addresses the growing need for efficient power management in a world with many connected devices. As more electronics require charging, systems that can intelligently distribute power become crucial for user experience and device longevity. This technology is relevant to power adapters, charging stations, and even in-vehicle charging systems. ### What does this patent NOT cover? Charging systems that only manage a single device. **Full plain-English explainer:** https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/9368994/dynamic-charging-device-and-method-thereof **Original patent:** https://patents.google.com/patent/US9368994 --- _Source: PatentBrief — https://patentbrief.org. Patent facts are from public records; the plain-English explanation is PatentBrief's._ ## Related patents Semantically similar inventions in the PatentBrief corpus: - [How Devices Negotiate Power Sharing When Connected Together](https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/9874914/hololens-mixed-reality-display) — A system for host devices like laptops to automatically set and update power-sharing rules with connected accessories based on identity and real-time power needs. - [How to Fast-Charge Lithium Batteries Without Damaging Them](https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/10700376/methods-for-fast-charging-and-detecting-lithium-plating-in-lithium-ion-batteries) — This patent describes a three-phase method for quickly charging lithium-ion batteries while carefully controlling voltages to prevent harmful lithium metal buildup and electrolyte damage. - [How Electric Cars Safely Pause Charging When You Want to Unplug](https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/9379564/charging-control-apparatus-and-charging-control-method) — A system for electric vehicles that safely pauses power flow when a driver signals they want to disconnect the charging cable, preventing electrical arcing or damage. - [How Smartphones Manage Multiple Notifications on a Locked Screen](https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/11921980/vision-pro-optic-id) — A patent describing how a locked smartphone displays multiple notifications from different apps and allows users to interact with them individually without unlocking the phone. - [How Computers Automatically Adjust Tasks to Run Faster in Data Centers](https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/9405582/aws-elastic-beanstalk) — A method for cloud computers to monitor their own performance while processing massive data tasks and automatically changing their settings or resource levels to stay efficient.