Switching circuit, electronic equipment and method for improving performance of electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a switching circuit, electronic equipment and a method for improving the performance of the electronic equipment. The electronic apparatus includes a switching circuit including a battery, an SOC, a thermoelectric sheet having a first end closer to the first device than a second end, and a switch having the second end closer to the battery than the first end. The battery supplies power to the SOC. When the environment temperature is higher than the preset temperature, if the SOC is in a transient state scene, the switch conducts a refrigeration circuit between the battery and the thermoelectric piece to enable the first end to serve as a cold end to refrigerate the SOC, and if the SOC is in a steady state scene, the switch conducts an energy recovery circuit between the battery and the thermoelectric piece to enable the thermoelectric piece to convert heat energy of the SOC into electric energy to charge the battery. When the environment temperature is smaller than or equal to the preset temperature, a heating circuit of the battery and the thermoelectric piece is connected through the switch, and the second end serves as a hot end to supply heat to the battery. The performance of the circuit and the electronic equipment can be improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the terminal field, and in particular to a switching circuit, an electronic device and a method for improving the performance of the electronic device. BACKGROUND

[0002] At present, the performance of devices in a circuit and electronic devices is affected by various factors. For example, when the temperature of a device is too high or too low, the performance of the device is limited, thereby affecting the performance of the electronic device. In addition, when the battery endurance is insufficient, the performance of the electronic device is also affected. SUMMARY

[0003] The present application provides a switching circuit, an electronic device and a method for improving the performance of the electronic device. The electronic device comprises a switching circuit, the switching circuit comprising a battery, a SOC, a thermoelectric sheet and a switch, the first end of the thermoelectric sheet being closer to the first device than the second end, and the second end of the thermoelectric sheet being closer to the battery than the first end. The battery supplies power to the SOC. When the ambient temperature is greater than the preset temperature, if the SOC is in a transient scene, the switch turns on the refrigeration circuit between the battery and the thermoelectric sheet, so that the first end acts as a cold end to cool the SOC, and if the SOC is in a steady state scene, the switch turns on the energy recovery circuit between the battery and the thermoelectric sheet, so that the thermoelectric sheet converts the heat energy of the SOC into electrical energy to charge the battery. When the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the preset temperature, the heating circuit between the battery and the thermoelectric sheet is turned on through the switch, so that the second end acts as a heating end to heat the battery. In this way, the performance of the circuit and the electronic device can be improved.

[0004] In a first aspect, the present application provides a switching circuit, comprising: a battery, a first device, a first thermoelectric sheet, and a first switch; the battery is configured to supply power to the first device, and a first end of the first thermoelectric sheet is closer to the first device than a second end; in a transient scene, the first switch is configured to turn on a connection between an output end of the battery and an input end of the first thermoelectric sheet, and the battery is configured to provide a first current flowing from the first end to the second end to the first thermoelectric sheet, and the transient scene includes a scenario in which the temperature of the first device is greater than a first preset temperature; in a steady state scene, the first switch is configured to turn on a connection between an output end of the first thermoelectric sheet and an input end of the battery, and the first thermoelectric sheet is configured to charge the battery, and the steady state scene includes a scenario in which the temperature of the first device is less than or equal to the first preset temperature.

[0005] After the method provided by the first aspect is implemented, the circuit that matches the scene can be intelligently switched according to the steady state scene / transient scene in which the circuit is located, so that in the transient scene, the first end can act as a cold end to cool the first device in time, thereby avoiding overheating of the first device and limiting its high performance, and in the steady state scene, the heat energy generated by the first device can be recovered in time, and the heat energy is converted into electrical energy to supply power to the battery, thereby improving the endurance of the electronic device.

[0006] Secondly, this application provides another switching circuit, which includes: a battery, a first device, and a first switch; the battery is used to supply power to the first device, the first device integrates a first thermoelectric element, and the first end of the first thermoelectric element is closer to the heat source in the first device than the second end; in a transient scenario, the first switch is used to connect the output end of the battery and the input end of the first thermoelectric element, and the battery is used to provide the first thermoelectric element with a first current flowing from the first end to the second end, the transient scenario including scenarios where the temperature of the first device is greater than a first preset temperature; in a steady-state scenario, the first switch is used to connect the input end of the battery and the output end of the first thermoelectric element, the first thermoelectric element is used to charge the battery, the steady-state scenario including scenarios where the temperature of the first device is less than or equal to the first preset temperature.

[0007] After implementing the method provided in the second aspect, the circuit can be intelligently switched to match the steady-state / transient scenario of the circuit. In the transient scenario, the first end of the heating element can act as the cold end to cool the first device in time, and the heating element can be placed inside the first device to better cool the first device and avoid overheating of the first device, which would limit its performance. In the steady-state scenario, the heat energy generated by the first device can be recovered in time and converted into electrical energy to power the battery, thereby improving the battery life of the electronic device.

[0008] In conjunction with the switching circuit described in the first or second aspect, the ambient temperature is greater than the second preset temperature in the transient or steady-state scenario.

[0009] In this way, even when the ambient temperature is not low, transient and steady-state scenarios can be distinguished, avoiding the need for cooling or energy recovery in low-temperature environments, which would increase the burden on the battery.

[0010] In conjunction with the switching circuit described in the first or second aspect, the second terminal is closer to the battery than the first terminal; when the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the second preset temperature, the first switch is used to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element, and the battery is used to provide the first thermoelectric element with a second current flowing from the first terminal to the second terminal.

[0011] In this way, when the ambient temperature is low, heating measures can be prioritized, that is, the second end acts as the cold end to heat the battery, ensuring the normal charging and discharging performance of the battery, and thus enabling the entire switching circuit to operate normally.

[0012] In conjunction with the switching circuit described in the first or second aspect, the duration for which the battery provides the first current is less than the duration for which it provides the second current; and / or, the voltage of the battery when providing the first current is less than the voltage when providing the second current.

[0013] In this way, since transient scenarios are short-lived but low-temperature environments are prolonged, the duration for which the second end heats the battery can be longer than the duration for which the first end cools the first device, or the current for heating the battery at the second end can be greater than the current for cooling the first device at the first end, thus effectively ensuring battery performance in low-temperature environments.

[0014] In conjunction with the switching circuit described in the first or second aspect, the switching circuit further includes a voltage regulator and a second switch; in the transient scenario, the second switch is used to connect the output terminal of the battery and the input terminal of the voltage regulator, the first switch is used to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element, and the voltage regulator is used to convert the voltage output by the battery from a first voltage to a second voltage, the first voltage being greater than the second voltage; in the steady-state scenario, the first switch is used to connect the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element and the input terminal of the voltage regulator, the second switch is used to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the input terminal of the battery, and the voltage regulator is used to convert the voltage output by the first thermoelectric element from a third voltage to a fourth voltage, the third voltage being less than the fourth voltage.

[0015] In this way, a voltage regulator can be set in the circuit to adjust the output voltage according to the load requirements. The voltage regulator can be a boost voltage regulator or a buck voltage regulator.

[0016] In conjunction with the switching circuit described in the first or second aspect, the switching circuit further includes a PMIC, the output terminal of which is connected; in the transient scenario, if the battery is not connected to a charger, or if the battery is connected to a fast charger, the second switch is specifically used to turn on the USB interface / VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC and the input terminal of the voltage regulator; if the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, the second switch is specifically used to turn on the VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC and the input terminal of the voltage regulator; in the steady-state scenario, if the battery is not connected to a charger, or if the battery is connected to a fast charger, the second switch is specifically used to turn on the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the USB interface / VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC; if the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, the second switch is specifically used to turn on the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC.

[0017] In this way, when the switching circuit is connected to a fast charger, the recovered electrical energy can be used to charge the battery in parallel. When the switching circuit is connected to a non-fast charger, even if the USB interface is occupied, the recovered electrical energy can still be used to charge the battery through the VPH-PWR interface.

[0018] In conjunction with the switching circuit described in the first or second aspect, the first device includes one or more of the following: a chip, a power amplifier PA, and a memory.

[0019] These devices typically contain semiconductors and generate heat during operation. Therefore, cooling or energy recovery methods can be used to improve the performance of the entire circuit.

[0020] In conjunction with the switching circuit described in the first or second aspect, the first device is a chip, and the transient scenario includes one or more of the following: the chip updates the system, the chip starts a first type of application, the chip runs a first type of application, the chip continuously starts multiple second type of applications, the baseband processor in the chip is occupied, the battery is connected to the charger and is in the constant current charging stage, wherein the power consumption of running the first type of application is greater than the power consumption of running the second type of application; the steady-state scenario includes one or more of the following: the chip runs a second type of application, the baseband processor is idle, the battery is not connected to the charger, the battery is connected to the charger and is in the constant voltage charging stage.

[0021] In conjunction with the switching circuit described in the first or second aspect, the switching circuit is disposed in an electronic device including a mid-frame, wherein the second end of the first thermoelectric element is closer to the mid-frame than the first end.

[0022] In conjunction with the switching circuit described in the first or second aspect, the first thermoelectric element includes a plurality of thermoelectric elements connected in series.

[0023] Thirdly, this application provides a method for improving the performance of an electronic device. The method is applied to an electronic device including a switching circuit as described in either the first or second aspect. The method includes: detecting a transient scenario and controlling a first switch to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element; detecting a steady-state scenario and controlling the first switch to connect the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element to the input terminal of the battery.

[0024] In conjunction with the method described in the third aspect, this is a transient or steady-state scenario where the ambient temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

[0025] In conjunction with the method described in the third aspect, the method further includes: detecting that the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the second preset temperature, and controlling the first switch to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element.

[0026] In conjunction with the method described in the third aspect, the electronic device further includes a voltage regulator that controls the first switch to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element. Specifically, this includes controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the voltage regulator, and controlling the first switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element. In the case of a transient scenario, the method further includes controlling the voltage regulator to convert the voltage output by the battery from a first voltage to a second voltage, where the first voltage is greater than the second voltage; controlling the first switch to connect the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element to the input terminal of the battery. Specifically, this includes controlling the first switch to connect the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element to the input terminal of the voltage regulator, and controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator to the input terminal of the battery. In the case of a steady-state scenario, the method further includes controlling the voltage regulator to convert the voltage output by the first thermoelectric element from a third voltage to a fourth voltage, where the third voltage is less than the fourth voltage.

[0027] In conjunction with the method described in the third aspect, the electronic device further includes a PMIC, the output terminal of which is connected; controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the voltage regulator specifically includes: if the battery is not connected to a charger, or if the battery is connected to a fast charger, controlling the second switch to connect the USB / VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC and the input terminal of the voltage regulator; if the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, controlling the second switch to connect the VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC and the input terminal of the voltage regulator; controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator to the input terminal of the battery specifically includes: if the battery is not connected to a charger, or if the battery is connected to a fast charger, controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the USB / VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC; if the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC.

[0028] Fourthly, this application provides an electronic device that includes a switching circuit as described in either the first or second aspect.

[0029] Fifthly, this application provides a chip system comprising a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory, the processor executing the computer program to implement the steps of the method described in any of the third aspects.

[0030] In a sixth aspect, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, performs the steps of the method as described in any of the third aspects.

[0031] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the steps of the method as described in any of the third aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0032] FIG. 1A A schematic diagram of an electronic device structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] FIG. 1B A schematic diagram of a circuit structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] FIG. 2 The method for improving the performance of electronic devices based on switching circuits provided in this application;

[0035] FIG. 3 The present application provides a structure for a switching circuit;

[0036] FIG. 4 The specific structure of another switching circuit provided in this application;

[0037] FIG. 5 The specific structure of another switching circuit provided in this application;

[0038] FIG. 6A-FIG. 6B The specific structure of another switching circuit provided in this application;

[0039] FIG. 7 This application provides a positional structure for a thermoelectric element in a switching circuit.

[0040] FIG. 8 This application provides another positional structure for the thermoelectric element in a switching circuit.

[0041] FIG. 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device 100 provided in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and thoroughly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or," for example, A / B can mean A or B; the word "and / or" in the text is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone.

[0043] Hereinafter, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as implying or suggesting relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature, and in the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0044] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a mutually exclusive, independent, or alternative embodiment. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this application can be combined with other embodiments.

[0045] The term "user interface (UI)" used in the following embodiments of this application refers to the medium interface through which an application or operating system interacts and exchanges information with a user. It realizes the conversion between the internal form of information and the form that the user can receive. The user interface is source code written in a specific computer language such as Java or Extensible Markup Language (XML). The interface source code is parsed and rendered on the electronic device, ultimately presenting content that the user can recognize. A common form of user interface is the graphical user interface (GUI), which refers to a user interface related to computer operation displayed graphically. It can be visible interface elements such as text, icons, buttons, menus, tabs, text boxes, dialog boxes, status bars, navigation bars, and widgets displayed on the screen of an electronic device.

[0046] refer to FIG. 1A , FIG. 1A An exemplary embodiment of this application provides the structure of an electronic device.

[0047] like FIG. 1A As shown, from the cross-sectional and three-dimensional structure of the electronic device, the components of the electronic device from top to bottom are the display screen, the middle frame, and the back cover.

[0048] The display screen, as the visual output component of electronic devices, is located on top of the device. Its primary function is to display images and colors.

[0049] The mid-frame, as the skeleton of an electronic device, includes the bezel and the brackets extending into the internal structure of the device, and is located between the display and the back cover. FIG. 1AThe example shown uses only the middle frame formed by the border. The structure of the middle frame extending into the interior of the electronic device varies in different models, and this application does not impose limitations on this. The middle frame is mainly responsible for supporting and fixing the display screen, back cover, and other internal components. These internal components include, but are not limited to, the battery, motherboard, and... FIG. 1A The following components are not shown: cameras, cables, sensors, etc. The motherboard includes, but is not limited to: System on a chip (SOC), and Double Data Rate (DDR) memory. As a system-on-a-chip for electronic devices, the SOC integrates multiple key functional modules, including a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), input / output interfaces, and other necessary hardware components.

[0050] The back cover, as the outer casing of an electronic device, is located at the bottom of the device. Its primary function is to protect the internal components of the electronic device from physical damage.

[0051] As electronic device manufacturing processes advance, electronic devices become increasingly thinner and lighter. Consequently, the heat dissipation space of the entire device is limited by the casing, preventing the electronic device from achieving the best performance of its System-on-a-Chip (SoC) and thus reducing the overall performance of the electronic device.

[0052] refer to FIG. 1B , FIG. 1B An exemplary circuit structure diagram provided in an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0053] like FIG. 1B As shown, to be set in the aforementioned FIG. 1A Taking the circuit in the illustrated electronic device as an example, the circuit is located between the display screen and the back cover, close to the middle frame of the electronic device, and is supported and fixed by the middle frame.

[0054] exist FIG. 1B The circuit shown includes, but is not limited to: a battery, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC), a buck converter, and a system-on-chip (SOC). The battery can supply power to the SOC through the PMIC and buck converter for SOC operation. Optionally, the circuit may also include thermal conductive gel, which can be placed near the SOC to conduct the heat generated by the SOC to the mid-frame, thereby achieving heat dissipation.

[0055] based on FIG. 1A The electronic devices introduced and FIG. 1BAs the circuit diagram illustrates, the System-on-a-Chip (SOC) generates heat during operation. Excessive SOC temperature limits its performance. If the heat generated by the SOC is further restricted by the electronic device's casing and cannot be dissipated quickly enough, performance is further limited. In some heat dissipation technologies, besides thermal gel, vapor chamber (VC) cooling can be used in the mid-frame. VC cooling utilizes the gas-liquid phase change process within the VC to achieve heat diffusion and transfer. While VC cooling offers a larger heat dissipation contact area and can more effectively conduct heat from the SOC to the surrounding area, it is relatively slow in many transient scenarios where the SOC needs to provide high transient performance, thus failing to fully utilize the SOC's transient high performance. Furthermore, when the circuit is in a low-temperature environment, battery discharge and charging efficiency decrease, battery life is shortened, and battery aging is accelerated, affecting circuit operation and ultimately the normal operation of the electronic device.

[0056] FIG. 1A-FIG. 1B The embodiments merely illustrate one possible implementation of a circuit or electronic device and should not be construed as limiting this application. For example, some electronic devices may not have a display screen or a mid-frame, but only a housing that encloses the circuitry. Furthermore, some circuits may contain more or fewer components, such as excluding a BUCK, including memory, or replacing the SOC with other components. The embodiments in this application do not limit the specific implementation of the circuit or electronic device.

[0057] It is evident that when the aforementioned circuits and electronic devices are used, there will be situations where battery performance, SOC performance, and electronic device performance are reduced.

[0058] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides a switching circuit, an electronic device, and a method for improving the performance of the electronic device based on the switching circuit. The electronic device includes a switching circuit comprising a battery, a State of the Charge (SOC), a thermoelectric element, and a switch. A first end of the thermoelectric element is closer to a first device than its second end, and a second end of the thermoelectric element is closer to the battery than its first end. The battery supplies power to the SOC, enabling SOC operation. When the ambient temperature is higher than a preset temperature, if the SOC is in a transient state, the switch activates a cooling circuit between the battery and the thermoelectric element. The battery supplies power to the thermoelectric element through this cooling circuit, making the first end a cold junction for cooling the SOC. If the SOC is in a steady state, the switch activates an energy recovery circuit between the battery and the thermoelectric element, allowing the thermoelectric element to convert the SOC's thermal energy into electrical energy, which is then used to charge the battery through the energy recovery circuit. When the ambient temperature is lower than or equal to a preset temperature, the switch activates a heating circuit between the battery and the thermoelectric element, making the second end a hot junction for heating the battery. This improves the performance of the switching circuit and the electronic device.

[0059] For details on methods to improve the performance of electronic devices based on switching circuits, please refer to the following text. FIG. 2 The method flow shown is described below.

[0060] For one implementation structure of the switching circuit, please refer to the following text. FIG. 3-FIG. 8 The description will not be repeated here.

[0061] Next, we will introduce the key components involved in this application.

[0062] Thermoelectric elements are composed of N-type and P-type semiconductors. They achieve cooling or heating functions based on the property of absorbing and releasing heat when current flows between these two types of semiconductors. Specifically, when current flows from the N-type semiconductor to the P-type semiconductor, heat is absorbed at the junction, causing the temperature to drop and forming a cold junction; conversely, when current flows from the P-type semiconductor to the N-type semiconductor, heat is released at the junction, causing the temperature to rise and forming a hot junction. Thus, by changing the direction and magnitude of the current, the thermoelectric element achieves cooling or heating. Furthermore, considering the structure of the thermoelectric element, the current typically flows from the cold junction to the hot junction. For more information on the function of thermoelectric elements and their circuit connections, please refer to the subsequent discussion. FIG. 3-FIG. 8 The specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0063] PMIC (Power Microcontroller Interface): Its main functions include controlling the magnitude and direction of current to adapt to the system load requirements. Specifically, the PMIC can select power from multiple power sources (such as the internal battery, internal energy recovery circuit, external fast charger, external non-fast charger, etc.) and distribute it to various parts of the main system, providing multiple power supplies with different voltages. In addition, the PMIC can also charge the internal battery from multiple power sources (such as the internal energy recovery circuit, external fast charger, external non-fast charger, etc.). For more information on the PMIC's function and circuit connection methods, please refer to the subsequent sections. FIG. 3-FIG. 8 The specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0064] refer to FIG. 2 , FIG. 2 This application illustrates a method for improving the performance of electronic devices based on switching circuits.

[0065] FIG. 2 The method shown specifically provides a switching circuit that detects changes in ambient temperature and operating scenario, and dynamically switches to a circuit that adapts to the current ambient temperature and operating scenario, thereby enabling the corresponding performance mode, energy-saving mode and heating mode, to improve the performance of the switching circuit and the electronic equipment.

[0066] S21, detects ambient temperature.

[0067] Specifically, the ambient temperature can be detected by a temperature sensor and reported to the corresponding processor. The processor can then analyze whether the current ambient temperature is low. If it is low, the heating mode needs to be activated (see S26-S28 for details). If it is not low, the processor can further determine whether the operating scenario is transient or steady-state, and then activate the working mode adapted to the operating scenario (see S22, S231-S251, S232-S252 for details).

[0068] Optionally, the change or absolute value of the ambient temperature can be detected by a temperature sensor, or the ambient temperature can be detected periodically to obtain the current ambient temperature in a timely manner. This application embodiment does not limit the specific method of detecting the ambient temperature.

[0069] Optionally, the processor can be a processor within the SOC in the switching circuit, or it can be a processor independent of the SOC. This application does not limit this; for details regarding the specific structure of the switching circuit, please refer to the following description. FIG. 3-FIG. 8 The details of this will not be elaborated here.

[0070] S22, detect the operating scenario when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature.

[0071] Specifically, the switching circuit operation is detected in a non-low-temperature environment, i.e., when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature. For details on the specific structure of the switching circuit, please refer to the following text. FIG. 3-FIG. 8 The details of this will not be elaborated here.

[0072] Here, "non-low temperature environment" refers to an ambient temperature that does not affect battery performance. Since battery performance begins to decline when the ambient temperature is below 0°C, and the battery's capacity, charging and discharging rates decrease significantly when the ambient temperature drops to -20°C, the value of the second preset temperature described in this application can be any value close to 0°C to -20°C. This application does not impose specific limitations on the value of the second preset temperature.

[0073] The operating scenarios are specifically divided according to the operating state of the SOC in the switching circuit, including transient scenarios and steady-state scenarios.

[0074] Transient scenarios include situations where, during the operation of the SOC in the switching circuit, the temperature of the internal semiconductor junction (junction temperature) exceeds a first preset temperature (e.g., 85°C). Specifically, transient scenarios can include one or more of the following operating scenarios: the SOC updating the system in the switching circuit, launching a first-type application, running a first-type application, continuously launching multiple second-type applications, the baseband processor in the SOC being occupied, and the switching circuit being in the constant current charging stage. The first-type applications are typically large applications, such as games or beauty camera apps, while the second-type applications are small applications, such as reading apps. The power consumption of the SOC running the first-type application in the switching circuit is greater than the power consumption of running the second-type application. The constant current charging stage refers to the initial stage when the battery in the switching circuit is connected to the charger; in the initial charging stage, the charging voltage gradually increases, and the charging rate is relatively fast.

[0075] Steady-state scenarios include those where the temperature of the internal semiconductor junction (junction temperature) is less than or equal to a first preset temperature during the operation of the SOC in the switching circuit. Specifically, transient scenarios can include one or more of the following operating scenarios: the SOC is running a second type of application in the switching circuit; the baseband processor in the SOC is idle; the switching circuit is not connected to a charger; and the switching circuit is connected to a charger and is in the constant-voltage charging stage. The constant-voltage charging stage refers to the later stages when the battery in the switching circuit is connected to the charger, a stage where the charging voltage is constant, the charging current gradually decreases, and the charging rate is relatively fast.

[0076] The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific operating scenarios included in transient and steady-state scenarios, which depend on the performance of the running hardware itself. For example, different SOCs may have different junction temperatures when running the same application.

[0077] S231-S251; Enable performance mode.

[0078] S231, when the running scenario is a transient scenario, determine to enable performance mode.

[0079] Specifically, in transient scenarios, the SOC in the switching circuit usually operates with high configuration parameters. When operating with high configuration parameters, the SOC will heat up rapidly. When the SOC temperature is too high, it will limit the SOC from performing its high performance. Therefore, in transient scenarios, it is necessary to enable performance mode to ensure that the SOC can effectively perform its high performance.

[0080] S241, activate the first circuit to cool the SOC through the cold end of the thermoelectric element.

[0081] Specifically, activating the performance mode includes enabling the first circuit in the switching circuit. When the first circuit is working, the battery in the first circuit can supply power to the thermoelectric element, causing a first current to flow from the first end to the second end through the thermoelectric element, thereby making the first end the cold end. Since the first end is located near the SOC, the thermoelectric element can be used to cool the SOC.

[0082] Enabling the first circuit includes sending an enable signal to the first switch in the first circuit, so that the first switch connects the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the thermoelectric element, thereby enabling the first circuit and allowing the battery to supply power to the thermoelectric element through the first circuit.

[0083] For details regarding the structure of the first circuit, please refer to the following text. FIG. 3-FIG. 8 The specific details of the switching circuit will not be elaborated here.

[0084] S251, if one of the following conditions is met, the first circuit is turned off: the duration of the first circuit being enabled reaches a first duration, or the circuit is switched to energy-saving mode.

[0085] Specifically, in performance mode, if the duration of the first circuit being enabled reaches a certain threshold, the first circuit is then disabled. This is because the switching circuit typically operates in a transient state for a short period, rather than continuously for an extended period. Therefore, setting a threshold for the first duration can prevent the first circuit from being enabled for an extended period without timely detection of exiting performance mode (i.e., without timely detection of entering energy-saving mode or heating mode), thus avoiding additional battery consumption. Optionally, after the first duration is reached and the first circuit is disabled, the system may default to enabling the second circuit, or the second circuit may not be enabled at all, only being enabled upon subsequent confirmation of entering energy-saving mode. This embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0086] Alternatively, if after enabling the first circuit, a steady-state scenario is detected requiring a switch to energy-saving mode, then the first circuit is shut down. After shutting down the first circuit, the second circuit needs to be enabled. This is because, when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, the operating scenario of the switching circuit is either a transient scenario or a steady-state scenario. Therefore, detecting a steady-state scenario indicates that the current operating scenario has switched, thus requiring the first circuit to be shut down and the second circuit to be enabled to provide energy-saving mode. For details on how to enable the second circuit, please refer to the subsequent descriptions of S232-S252, which will not be elaborated here.

[0087] Specifically, if, after activating the first circuit, the ambient temperature is detected to be lower than the second preset temperature, requiring a switch to heating mode, the first circuit can continue to be activated without being shut down. Optionally, the voltage output from the voltage regulator in the first circuit to the thermoelectric element can be adjusted to provide a higher voltage to the thermoelectric element in heating mode. For details on how to activate the first circuit, please refer to the subsequent descriptions of S26-S28; they will not be elaborated upon here.

[0088] S232-S252; Energy-saving mode activated.

[0089] S232, under the steady-state operating scenario, determine to activate the energy-saving mode.

[0090] Specifically, in steady-state scenarios, the SOC in the switching circuit usually operates with medium to low configuration parameters. When operating with medium to low configuration parameters, the SOC will heat up, but the temperature will not be too high, so it will not limit the SOC to perform normally. Therefore, in steady-state scenarios, it is necessary to enable the energy-saving mode to convert the heat generated by the SOC into electrical energy for recycling and charging the battery, thereby saving the power consumption of the switching circuit and improving the battery's range.

[0091] S242, the second circuit is activated, which converts the heat energy generated by the SOC into electrical energy through the thermoelectric element and charges the battery.

[0092] Specifically, activating the energy-saving mode involves enabling the second circuit in the switching circuit. When this second circuit is working, the thermoelectric element in the second circuit can convert the heat energy generated by the SOC into electrical energy, which is then used to charge the battery.

[0093] Enabling the second circuit includes sending an enable signal to the first switch in the second circuit, causing the first switch to connect the output end of the thermoelectric element to the input end of the battery, thereby enabling the second circuit so that the thermoelectric element supplies power to the battery through the second circuit.

[0094] For details regarding the structure of the second circuit, please refer to the following text. FIG. 3-FIG. 8 The specific details of the switching circuit will not be elaborated here.

[0095] S252, the second circuit shall be turned off if one of the following conditions is met: the duration of the second circuit being enabled reaches the second duration, the performance mode is switched to, or the heating mode is switched to.

[0096] Specifically, in energy-saving mode, if the second circuit is activated for a certain duration, it will be shut down. This is because the heat generated by the SOC in the switching circuit is limited, and there is no need for prolonged continuous energy recovery. Optionally, after the second circuit is shut down upon reaching the second duration, it may not switch to the first circuit by default. The first circuit will only be activated after subsequent confirmation of performance mode or heating mode. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0097] Alternatively, if a transient scenario is detected after enabling the second circuit, requiring a switch to performance mode, the second circuit is then disabled. After disabling the second circuit, the first circuit must be enabled. This is because, at an ambient temperature greater than or equal to a second preset temperature, the switching circuit operates in either a transient or steady-state scenario. Therefore, detecting a transient scenario indicates that the current operating scenario has switched, necessitating the disabling of the second circuit and switching to enabling the first circuit to provide performance mode. For details on enabling the first circuit, please refer to the descriptions in S231-S251 above; they will not be elaborated upon here.

[0098] Alternatively, if, after activating the second circuit, the ambient temperature is detected to be lower than the second preset temperature, requiring a switch to heating mode, then after shutting down the second circuit, the first circuit must be activated again. For details on how to activate the first circuit, please refer to the subsequent descriptions of S26-S28; they will not be elaborated upon here.

[0099] S26-S28; Heating mode activated.

[0100] S26: After the ambient temperature is lower than the second preset temperature, the heating mode is activated.

[0101] Specifically, in low-temperature environments, i.e., when the ambient temperature is below the second preset temperature, the heating mode can be prioritized without distinguishing between transient and steady-state scenarios. This is because battery performance degrades in low-temperature environments, affecting the normal operation of the entire switching circuit. Therefore, ensuring battery performance is paramount, which necessitates activating the heating mode to warm the switching circuit or the battery within it.

[0102] S27, the first circuit is activated, and the battery is heated through the hot end of the thermoelectric element.

[0103] Specifically, activating the heating mode includes: activating the first circuit in the switching circuit. When the first circuit is working, the battery in the first circuit supplies power to the thermoelectric element, causing a second current to flow from the first end to the second end in the thermoelectric element, thereby making the second end the hot end. If the second end is placed near the battery, it can achieve the function of heating the battery.

[0104] Enabling the first circuit includes sending an enable signal to the first switch in the first circuit, so that the first switch connects the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the thermoelectric element, thereby enabling the first circuit and allowing the battery to supply power to the thermoelectric element through the first circuit.

[0105] Optionally, the first circuit needs to be activated in both performance mode and heating mode, and the operating state of the first circuit can be the same or slightly different. For example, the activation duration of the first circuit in heating mode can be set to be longer than that in performance mode. Alternatively, the voltage output from the voltage regulator to the thermoelectric element in the first circuit in heating mode can be set to be greater than that in performance mode. This effectively warms the battery when the ambient temperature is low, restoring battery performance and ensuring battery efficiency.

[0106] For details regarding the structure of the first circuit, please refer to the following text. FIG. 3 The details of the switching circuit will not be elaborated here.

[0107] S28. If one of the following conditions is met, the first circuit is turned off: the duration of the first circuit being enabled reaches the third duration, or the energy-saving mode is switched.

[0108] Specifically, in heating mode, if the first circuit is activated for a certain duration, it will be shut down. This is because after a period of heating the battery, it is sufficient to maintain the battery's normal operation, and it is better to avoid providing additional heating to the battery for an extended period, thus wasting the battery's power.

[0109] Alternatively, if after enabling the first circuit, a steady-state scenario requiring a switch to energy-saving mode is detected, the first circuit is then disabled. After disabling the first circuit, the second circuit needs to be enabled. For details on enabling the second circuit, please refer to the descriptions of S232-S252 above; they will not be repeated here.

[0110] Specifically, if a transient scenario requiring a switch to performance mode is detected after enabling the first circuit, the first circuit does not need to be shut down and can continue to be enabled. Optionally, the voltage output to the thermoelectric element by the voltage regulator in the first circuit can be adjusted so that it outputs a lower voltage to the thermoelectric element in performance mode.

[0111] refer to FIG. 3 , FIG. 3 The structure of a switching circuit provided in this application is shown.

[0112] like FIG. 3 As shown, the switching circuit includes a battery, a state of charge (SOC), a thermoelectric element 1 (also called the first thermoelectric element), and a switch 1 (also called the first switch). The first end of the thermoelectric element 1 is closer to the SOC than the second end. The first end is... FIG. 2The upper end of the thermoelectric element 1 shown is the first end, and the lower end is the second end. Optionally, the second end of the thermoelectric element 1 is closer to the battery than the first end, and the second end of the thermoelectric element 1 is closer to the mid-frame of the electronic device than the first end.

[0113] The battery is connected to the State Charge (SOC) and supplies power to the SOC, enabling it to operate. Typically, the battery supplies power to the SOC when its charge level is greater than a preset limit (e.g., greater than 0), ensuring the SOC's normal operation.

[0114] The battery is also connected to the thermoelectric element via switch 1. Specifically, switch 1 can activate a first circuit, allowing the battery to be connected to the thermoelectric element through the first circuit, which includes a connection between the battery's output terminal and the thermoelectric element's input terminal. Alternatively, switch 1 can activate a second circuit, allowing the battery to be connected to the thermoelectric element through the second circuit, which includes a connection between the thermoelectric element's output terminal and the battery's input terminal.

[0115] When the switching circuit needs to activate performance mode, switch 1 turns on the first circuit, the second circuit turns off, and the current in thermoelectric element 1 flows from the first terminal to the second terminal, making the first terminal the cold terminal for cooling the SOC. When the switching circuit needs to activate heating mode, switch 1 turns on the first circuit, the second circuit turns off, and the current in thermoelectric element 1 flows from the first terminal to the second terminal, making the second terminal the hot terminal for heating the battery. When the switching circuit needs to activate energy-saving mode, switch 1 turns on the second circuit, and the first circuit turns off. For details on confirming the switching circuit's operating mode and the rules for activating the corresponding circuit based on the operating mode, please refer to the previous section. FIG. 3 The methodology and process described in the text will not be elaborated here.

[0116] Understandable, FIG. 4-FIG. 8 The present invention merely exemplifies one structure of a switching circuit and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. For example, it may include more components, such as thermoelectric elements, switches, voltage regulators, power amplifiers (PA), memory, boxes, charging ICs, etc. Among these, the SOC, PA, memory, box, and charging IC can be referred to as first devices, all of which generate heat during operation. For other specific implementations of the switching circuit, please refer to the subsequent descriptions. FIG. 4 Introduction.

[0117] refer to FIG. 4 , FIG. 3 The specific structure of another switching circuit provided in this application is shown.

[0118] Compared to FIG. 4 The switching circuit shown, FIG. 4The switching circuit shown may also include more components, such as voltage regulator 1, voltage regulator 2, and switch 2 (also known as the second switch).

[0119] exist FIG. 4 In the switching circuit shown, the battery is connected to the SOC via voltage regulator 2, which supplies power to the SOC to enable its operation. Typically, the battery supplies power to the SOC when its charge level is greater than a preset value (e.g., greater than 0), ensuring the SOC's normal operation. Voltage regulator 2 is a step-down converter; it can reduce the battery's output voltage and supply it to the corresponding load, i.e., the SOC, according to the load's requirements.

[0120] exist FIG. 4 In the switching circuit shown, if it is determined that the performance mode or heating mode is to be activated, the first circuit needs to be enabled, and the battery is connected to the thermoelectric element 1 through the first circuit. The first circuit sequentially includes the connection between the battery, switch 2, voltage regulator 1, and the thermoelectric element 1. Specifically, switch 2 is located between the battery and voltage regulator 1 to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the voltage regulator 1, and switch 1 is located between the voltage regulator 1 and the thermoelectric element 1 to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator 1 to the input terminal of the thermoelectric element 1.

[0121] exist FIG. 2 In the switching circuit shown, if it is determined that the energy-saving mode needs to be activated, the second circuit needs to be enabled, and the thermoelectric element 1 is connected to the battery through the second circuit. This second circuit sequentially includes the thermoelectric element 1, switch 1, voltage regulator 1, switch 2, and the connection between them and the battery. Switch 1 is located between the thermoelectric element 1 and the voltage regulator 1, used to connect the output terminal of the thermoelectric element 1 to the input terminal of the voltage regulator 1. Switch 2 is located between the battery and the voltage regulator 1, used to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator 1 to the input terminal of the battery.

[0122] In other words, when it is confirmed that the switching circuit needs to activate the performance mode, switches 1 and 2 together activate the first circuit, while the second circuit is disconnected. The current in thermoelectric element 1 is the first current flowing from the first terminal to the second terminal, allowing the first terminal to act as the cold terminal, thus providing cooling for the SOC. When it is confirmed that the switching circuit needs to activate the heating mode, switches 1 and 2 together activate the first circuit, while the second circuit is disconnected. The current in thermoelectric element 1 is the second current flowing from the first terminal to the second terminal, allowing the second terminal to act as the hot terminal, thus providing heating for the battery. When it is confirmed that the switching circuit needs to activate the energy-saving mode, switches 1 and 2 together activate the second circuit, while the first circuit is disconnected. For details on confirming the operating mode of the switching circuit and the rules for activating the corresponding circuit based on the operating mode, please refer to the previous section. FIG. 4 The methodology and process described in the text will not be elaborated here.

[0123] Understandable, FIG. 5-FIG. 8 The present invention merely exemplifies one structure of a switching circuit and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. For example, it may include more components, such as a thermoelectric element, a power amplifier (PA), a memory, a box, a charging IC, etc. The SOC, PA, memory, box, and charging IC can be referred to as first components, all of which generate heat during operation. For other specific implementations of the switching circuit, please refer to the subsequent descriptions. FIG. 5 Introduction.

[0124] refer to FIG. 5 , FIG. 4 The specific structure of another switching circuit provided in this application is shown.

[0125] Compared to FIG. 5 The switching circuit shown, FIG. 5 The switching circuit shown can also include more components, such as a PMIC, switching control, fast charging module, and charger.

[0126] exist FIG. 5 In the switching circuit shown, the battery is connected to the SOC sequentially via the PMIC and voltage regulator 2, supplying power to the SOC through the PMIC and voltage regulator 2 to enable SOC operation. Typically, the battery supplies power to the SOC when its charge level is greater than a preset level (e.g., greater than 0), ensuring the normal operation of the SOC. The PMIC converts the battery output voltage into a system-level voltage, which serves as the main voltage in the switching circuit. Different manufacturers use different names for this system-level voltage, such as VPHPWR or Vsys, and this embodiment does not impose such limitations. The voltage regulator 2 can be a step-down converter, which reduces the voltage output from the PMIC before supplying it to the SOC.

[0127] exist FIG. 5 The switching circuit shown can be connected to an external charger to charge the battery. The charging circuit for connecting the external charger includes, but is not limited to, a charger, a switching control module, and a fast charging module. Specifically, when a fast charger is connected, the switching control module controls the charger to charge the battery through the fast charging module; when a non-fast charger or wireless charger is connected, the switching control module controls the charger to charge the battery through the USBIN interface and the PMIC. The battery's Vbat interface is connected to the PMIC via a power cable (and also via a ground wire). FIG. 5(Not shown), optionally, there can be only one power line between the PMIC and the battery. The PMIC can manage charging and discharging through this single power line (i.e., the battery's Vbat interface acts as an input in charging scenarios and an output in discharging scenarios). Alternatively, there can be multiple power lines between the PMIC and the battery, such as a charging power line and a discharging power line. The PMIC can manage charging through the charging power line and discharging through the discharging power line, respectively. In the embodiments of this application, different manufacturers provide different fast charging technologies. This application does not specifically limit the fast charging technologies involved. Non-fast charging technologies can also be called USB charging. Optionally, USB charging can also dynamically adjust the charging voltage and current, but it follows a general standard and is independent of the fast charging standard provided by the manufacturer.

[0128] exist FIG. 5 In the switching circuit shown, if it is determined that the performance mode or heating mode is to be activated, the first circuit needs to be enabled, and the battery is connected to the thermoelectric element 1 through the first circuit. The first circuit includes, in sequence, the connection between the battery, PMIC, switch 2, voltage regulator 1, and thermoelectric element 1. The battery's Vbat interface is connected to the PMIC via a power cable. Switch 2 is located between the PMIC and the voltage regulator 1. If the switching circuit is not connected to a charger or is connected to a fast charger, switch 2 specifically connects the PMIC's USBIN or VPHPWR interface to the input terminal of the voltage regulator 1. If the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, and the USBIN path is occupied, switch 2 specifically connects the PMIC's VPHPWR interface to the input terminal of the voltage regulator 1, thereby ultimately connecting the PMIC and the input terminal of the voltage regulator 1. Switch 1 is located between the voltage regulator 1 and the thermoelectric element 1 to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator 1 to the input terminal of the thermoelectric element 1.

[0129] exist FIG. 2In the switching circuit shown, if the energy-saving mode is activated, the second circuit needs to be enabled, and the thermoelectric element 1 is connected to the battery through the second circuit. This second circuit sequentially includes the thermoelectric element 1, switch 1, voltage regulator 1, switch 2, PMIC, and the connection between them and the battery. Switch 1 is located between the thermoelectric element 1 and the voltage regulator 1, used to connect the output of the thermoelectric element 1 to the input of the voltage regulator 1. Switch 2 is located between the PMIC and the voltage regulator 1. If the switching circuit is not connected to a charger or is connected to a fast charger, switch 2 connects the output of the voltage regulator to the USB interface or VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC. If the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, and the USBIN path is occupied, switch 2 specifically connects the output of the voltage regulator to the VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC, thus ultimately connecting the output of the voltage regulator 1 to the PMIC. The PMIC is also connected to the battery's Vbat interface via a power cord. Optionally, if the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, switch 2 can also disconnect the connection between the PMIC and the voltage regulator 1, and the battery can be charged simply by using the non-fast charger, without having to charge the battery with the recovered energy.

[0130] In other words, when it is confirmed that the switching circuit needs to activate the performance mode, switches 1 and 2 together activate the first circuit, while the second circuit is disconnected. The current in thermoelectric element 1 is the first current flowing from the first terminal to the second terminal, allowing the first terminal to act as the cold terminal, thus providing cooling for the SOC. When it is confirmed that the switching circuit needs to activate the heating mode, switches 1 and 2 together activate the first circuit, while the second circuit is disconnected. The current in thermoelectric element 1 is the second current flowing from the first terminal to the second terminal, allowing the second terminal to act as the hot terminal, thus providing heating for the battery. When it is confirmed that the switching circuit needs to activate the energy-saving mode, switches 1 and 2 together activate the second circuit, while the first circuit is disconnected. The rules for confirming the operating mode of the switching circuit in the first and second circuits, and for activating the corresponding circuit based on the operating mode, can be found in the previous section. FIG. 5 The methodology and process described in the text will not be elaborated here.

[0131] Understandable, FIG. 5-FIG. 8 The present invention merely exemplifies one structure of a switching circuit and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. For example, it may include more components, such as a thermoelectric element, a power amplifier (PA), a memory, a box, a charging IC, etc. The SOC, PA, memory, box, and charging IC can be referred to as first components, all of which generate heat during operation. For other specific implementations of the switching circuit, please refer to the subsequent descriptions. FIG. 6A Introduction.

[0132] refer to FIG. 6A, FIG. 5 The specific structure of another switching circuit provided in this application is shown.

[0133] Compared to FIG. 6A The switching circuit shown, FIG. 6A The switching circuit shown can also include more components, such as the PA and thermoelectric element 2 (also referred to as the first thermoelectric element). Similar to the positional relationship between thermoelectric element 1 and the SOC, the first end of thermoelectric element 2 is closer to the PA than its second end. The first end is... FIG. 6A The upper end of the thermoelectric element 2 shown is the first end, and the lower end is the second end. Optionally, the second end of the thermoelectric element 2 is closer to the battery than the first end, and the second end of the thermoelectric element 2 is closer to the mid-frame of the electronic device than the first end.

[0134] exist FIG. 5 In the switching circuit shown, the battery is connected to the SOC sequentially via the PMIC and voltage regulator 2, supplying power to the SOC through the PMIC and voltage regulator 2 to enable SOC operation. For a description of the battery-to-SOC power supply circuit and method, please refer to the aforementioned section. FIG. 6A The relevant descriptions will not be repeated here.

[0135] exist FIG. 5 In the switching circuit shown, if it is determined that the performance mode or heating mode is to be activated, the first circuit needs to be enabled. The battery is connected to thermoelectric element 1 and thermoelectric element 2 via the first circuit, with thermoelectric element 1 and thermoelectric element 2 connected in series. This first circuit sequentially includes the battery, PMIC, switch 2, voltage regulator 1, switch 1, thermoelectric element 1, and the connection between thermoelectric element 2. When the switching circuit enables the first circuit, thermoelectric element 1 can cool the SOC, improving its operating performance, and thermoelectric element 2 can cool the PA, improving its operational amplifier capability. Alternatively, thermoelectric elements 1 and 2 can also heat the battery, ensuring its normal operation. For a description of the connection method and control conduction method of this first circuit, please refer to the aforementioned section... FIG. 6A The relevant descriptions will not be repeated here.

[0136] exist FIG. 5 In the switching circuit shown, if the energy-saving mode is activated, the second circuit needs to be enabled. Thermoelectric element 2 and thermoelectric element 1 are then connected to the battery via this second circuit. This second circuit sequentially includes thermoelectric element 2, thermoelectric element 1, switch 1, voltage regulator 1, switch 2, PMIC, and the connection between these components and the battery. When the switching circuit enables the second circuit, heat generated by the SOC can be recovered via thermoelectric element 1, and heat generated by the PA can be recovered via thermoelectric element 2, converting both into electrical energy to charge the battery. For a description of the connection method and control method of this second circuit, please refer to the aforementioned section... FIG. 6A The relevant descriptions will not be repeated here.

[0137] Understandable, FIG. 6A The example shown only includes two thermoelectric elements. The switching circuit can also include more thermoelectric elements. Multiple thermoelectric elements can be placed on different heating devices, such as on a memory or a box, or on the same heating device. Multiple thermoelectric elements can be connected in series, thereby recovering more electrical energy or increasing the cooling / heating capacity, etc.

[0138] exist FIG. 6B Based on the switching circuit shown, which includes multiple thermoelectric elements, these thermoelectric elements can be connected in parallel, or a combination of series and parallel connections, in addition to being connected in series. This avoids the problem of excessive voltage caused by multiple thermoelectric elements being connected in series. For information on the structure of multiple thermoelectric elements connected in series and parallel, please refer to... FIG. 3-FIG. 6A That is, thermoelectric element 1 and thermoelectric element 2 are connected in series, thermoelectric element 3 and thermoelectric element 4 are connected in series, thermoelectric element 5 and thermoelectric element 6 are connected in series, and then the series-connected thermoelectric elements are connected in parallel, and then through the aforementioned FIG. 7 The second circuit shown supplies power to the battery.

[0139] refer to FIG. 7 , FIG. 7 The position structure of the thermoelectric element in a switching circuit provided in this application is shown.

[0140] like FIG. 3-FIG. 7 As shown, when the switching circuit is set in an electronic device with an exhaust system, the thermoelectric element can be set on the upper and lower layers of the PCB respectively, that is, the thermoelectric element is attached to both sides of the PCB, so that the heat generated by the hot end of the thermoelectric element is conducted to the exhaust system of the rear shell, so that the heat dissipation of the thermoelectric element and the heat dissipation of the exhaust system can form parallel heat dissipation, which further accelerates the heat source (i.e., the aforementioned SOC, PA, etc.) heat dissipation.

[0141] The foregoing FIG. 8 In the switching circuits shown, the thermoelectric element is illustrated as being independent of the chip. In another possible implementation provided in this application, the thermoelectric element can also be integrated inside the chip.

[0142] refer to FIG. 8 , FIG. 8 This application illustrates the positional structure of the thermoelectric element in another switching circuit provided by this application.

[0143] like FIG. 9 As shown, a thermoelectric element can be placed inside the chip, and ball solder can be used as connecting pins to bring out the hot and cold points inside the chip. Then, the hot and cold points can be connected in series and / or parallel through the ball pins to charge the battery, cool the SOC, and heat the battery. This allows for more effective use of the heat inside the chip and faster improvement of the chip's performance.

[0144] The electronic device 100 involved in this application will now be described, which is provided with any of the aforementioned switching circuits.

[0145] Electronic devices can be equipped with Or other portable terminal devices with different operating systems, such as mobile phones, tablets, desktop computers, laptops, handheld computers, laptops, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), netbooks, as well as cellular phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), augmented reality (AR) devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, artificial intelligence (AI) devices, wearable devices, in-vehicle devices, smart home devices and / or smart city devices, etc.

[0146] FIG. 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device 100 is shown.

[0147] Electronic device 100 may include: processor 110, external memory interface 120, internal memory 121, universal serial bus (USB) interface 130, charging management module 140, power management module 141, battery 142, sensor module 180, thermoelectric element, display screen 194, etc. The sensor module 180 may include pressure sensor 180A, touch sensor 180B, temperature sensor 180C, etc.

[0148] It is understood that the structures illustrated in the embodiments of this application do not constitute a specific limitation on the electronic device 100. In other embodiments of this application, the electronic device 100 may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine some components, or split some components, or have different component arrangements. The illustrated components may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0149] Processor 110 may include one or more processing units, such as: application processor (AP), modem processor, graphics processing unit (GPU), image signal processor (ISP), controller, memory, video codec, digital signal processor (DSP), baseband processor, and / or neural network processing unit (NPU), etc. Different processing units may be independent devices or integrated into one or more processors. Processor 110 may be a System-on-Chip (SoC) in the aforementioned switching circuit.

[0150] The controller can be the nerve center and command center of the electronic device 100. The controller can generate operation control signals according to the instruction opcode and timing signals to complete the control of fetching and executing instructions.

[0151] The processor 110 may also include a memory for storing instructions and data. In some embodiments, the memory in the processor 110 is a cache memory. This memory can store instructions or data that the processor 110 has just used or that are used repeatedly. If the processor 110 needs to use the instruction or data again, it can retrieve it directly from the memory. This avoids repeated accesses, reduces the waiting time of the processor 110, and thus improves the efficiency of the system.

[0152] In this embodiment, the electronic device 100 can determine whether to activate a performance mode, an energy-saving mode, or a heating mode via the processor 110. For details on the specific implementation of which operating mode the processor 110 determines, please refer to the preceding text. ​ The method flow shown will not be elaborated here.

[0153] In some embodiments, the processor 110 may include one or more interfaces. Interfaces may include inter-integrated circuit (I2C) interfaces, general-purpose input / output (GPIO) interfaces, and / or universal serial bus (USB) interfaces, etc.

[0154] The I2C interface is a bidirectional synchronous serial bus, including a serial data line (SDA) and a serial clock line (SCL). In some embodiments, the processor 110 may include multiple I2C buses. The processor 110 can couple to the temperature sensor 180C, the charger, etc., through different I2C bus interfaces. For example, the processor 110 can couple to the temperature sensor 180C through the I2C interface, enabling the processor 110 and the temperature sensor 180C to communicate through the I2C bus interface, thereby obtaining the ambient temperature and determining whether to activate the heating mode.

[0155] The GPIO interface can be configured via software. It can be configured as a control signal or a data signal. In some embodiments, the GPIO interface can be used to connect the processor 110 to the sensor module 180, etc. The GPIO interface can also be configured as an I2C interface, etc.

[0156] USB port 130 is an interface that conforms to the USB standard specification, specifically it can be a Mini USB interface, Micro USB interface, USB Type C interface, etc. USB port 130 can be used to connect a charger to charge electronic devices 100, etc.

[0157] It is understood that the interface connection relationships between the modules illustrated in the embodiments of this application are merely illustrative and do not constitute a structural limitation on the electronic device 100. In other embodiments of this application, the electronic device 100 may also employ different interface connection methods or combinations of multiple interface connection methods as described in the above embodiments.

[0158] The charging management module 140 receives charging input from a charger. The charger can be a wireless charger or a wired charger. In some wired charging embodiments, the charging management module 140 receives charging input from the wired charger via the USB interface 130. In some wireless charging embodiments, the charging management module 140 receives wireless charging input via the wireless charging coil of the electronic device 100. While charging the battery 142, the charging management module 140 can also supply power to the electronic device via the power management module 141.

[0159] The power management module 141 connects the battery 142, the charging management module 140, and the processor 110. The power management module 141 receives input from the battery 142 and / or the charging management module 140, and supplies power to the processor 110, internal memory 121, external memory, display screen 194, etc. The power management module 141 can also monitor parameters such as battery capacity, battery cycle count, and battery health status (leakage current, impedance). In some other embodiments, the power management module 141 may also be located within the processor 110. In other embodiments, the power management module 141 and the charging management module 140 may be located in the same device. In this embodiment, the power management module 141 is the PMIC in the aforementioned switching circuit.

[0160] Electronic device 100 implements display functions through a GPU, a display screen 194, and an application processor. The GPU is a microprocessor for image processing, connected to the display screen 194 and the application processor. The GPU is used to perform mathematical and geometric calculations and for graphics rendering. Processor 110 may include one or more GPUs, which execute program instructions to generate or modify display information.

[0161] Internal memory 121 may include one or more random access memory (RAM) and one or more non-volatile memory (NVM). The RAM can be directly read and written by the processor 110 and can be used to store executable programs (e.g., machine instructions) of the operating system or other running programs, as well as user and application data. The NVM can also store executable programs and user and application data, and can be pre-loaded into the RAM for direct read and write operations by the processor 110.

[0162] The external memory interface 120 can be used to connect to external non-volatile memory, thereby expanding the storage capacity of the electronic device 100. The external non-volatile memory communicates with the processor 110 through the external memory interface 120 to perform data storage functions. For example, music, video, and other files can be stored in the external non-volatile memory.

[0163] The pressure sensor 180A is used to sense pressure signals and can convert the pressure signals into electrical signals. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor 180A may be disposed on the display screen 194.

[0164] Touch sensor 180B, also known as a "touch panel". Touch sensor 180B can be set on display screen 194. Touch sensor 180B and display screen 194 together form a touch screen, also known as a "touch screen".

[0165] Temperature sensor 180C is used to detect temperature. In some embodiments, electronic device 100 uses the temperature detected by temperature sensor 180C to execute a temperature processing strategy. For example, when the temperature reported by temperature sensor 180C is lower than a second ambient temperature, electronic device 100 executes the function of activating a heating mode; when the temperature reported by temperature sensor 180C is greater than or equal to the second ambient temperature, electronic device 100 performs a detection of the operating scenario, thereby enabling the activation of a performance mode in transient scenarios to implement thermal protection. In steady-state scenarios, the function of activating an energy-saving mode is executed, and electronic device 100 heats battery 142 to prevent abnormal shutdown of electronic device 100 due to low temperature.

[0166] It should be understood that each step in the above method embodiments can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor hardware or by instructions in software form. The method steps disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware processor, or being executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the processor.

[0167] This application also provides an electronic device that may include a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the method performed by the electronic device as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0168] This application also provides a chip system including a processing circuit and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is used to receive computer instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit. The processing circuit is used to execute the computer instructions to implement the method performed by the electronic device as in any of the above embodiments.

[0169] This application also provides a chip system including at least one processor for implementing the methods executed by the electronic device in any of the above embodiments. In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing program instructions and data, the memory being located within or outside the processor.

[0170] A chip system can consist of chips or include chips and other discrete components.

[0171] Optionally, there may be one or more processors in the chip system. The processor can be implemented in hardware or software. When implemented in hardware, the processor can be a logic circuit, integrated circuit, etc. When implemented in software, the processor can be a general-purpose processor, implemented by reading software code stored in memory.

[0172] Optionally, the chip system may contain one or more memories. These memories may be integrated with the processor or disposed separately; this application does not limit this. For example, the memory may be a non-transient processor, such as a read-only memory (ROM), which may be integrated with the processor on the same chip or disposed on different chips. This application does not specifically limit the type of memory or the arrangement of the memory and processor.

[0173] For example, the chip system may be a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system on chip (SoC), a central processor unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a micro controller unit (MCU), a programmable logic device (PLD), or other integrated chips.

[0174] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the method executed by the electronic device in any of the above embodiments.

[0175] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method executed by the electronic device as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0176] The various embodiments of this application can be combined arbitrarily to achieve different technical effects.

[0177] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., solid-state disk (SSD)).

[0178] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes described in the above method embodiments. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as ROM or random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0179] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or". For example, A / B can mean A or B. The "and / or" in the text is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, in the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more.

[0180] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as implying or suggesting relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0181] In summary, the above description is merely an embodiment of the technical solution of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made based on the disclosure of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A switching circuit, characterized in that, The switching circuit includes: a battery, a first device, a first thermoelectric element, and a first switch; the battery is used to supply power to the first device, and the first end of the first thermoelectric element is closer to the first device than the second end; In a transient scenario, the first switch is used to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element, and the battery is used to provide the first current flowing from the first terminal to the second terminal to the first thermoelectric element. The transient scenario includes a scenario where the temperature of the first device is greater than a first preset temperature. In a steady-state scenario, the first switch is used to connect the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element to the input terminal of the battery, and the first thermoelectric element is used to charge the battery. The steady-state scenario includes scenarios where the temperature of the first device is less than or equal to the first preset temperature.

2. A switching circuit, characterized in that, The switching circuit includes: a battery, a first device, and a first switch; the battery is used to supply power to the first device, the first device integrates a first thermoelectric element, and the first end of the first thermoelectric element is closer to the heat source in the first device than the second end; In a transient scenario, the first switch is used to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element, and the battery is used to provide the first current flowing from the first terminal to the second terminal to the first thermoelectric element. The transient scenario includes a scenario where the temperature of the first device is greater than a first preset temperature. In a steady-state scenario, the first switch is used to connect the input terminal of the battery to the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element, and the first thermoelectric element is used to charge the battery. The steady-state scenario includes scenarios where the temperature of the first device is less than or equal to the first preset temperature.

3. The switching circuit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, In the transient or steady-state scenario, the ambient temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

4. The switching circuit according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second end is closer to the battery than the first end; When the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the second preset temperature, the first switch is used to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element, and the battery is used to provide a second current to the first thermoelectric element flowing from the first terminal to the second terminal.

5. The switching circuit according to claim 4, characterized in that, The duration for which the battery provides the first current is shorter than the duration for which it provides the second current; And / or, the voltage of the battery when providing the first current is less than the voltage when providing the second current.

6. The switching circuit according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The switching circuit also includes a voltage regulator and a second switch; In the transient scenario, the second switch is used to connect the output terminal of the battery and the input terminal of the voltage regulator, the first switch is used to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element, and the voltage regulator is used to convert the voltage output by the battery from a first voltage to a second voltage, wherein the first voltage is greater than the second voltage; In the steady-state scenario, the first switch is used to connect the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element to the input terminal of the voltage regulator, the second switch is used to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator to the input terminal of the battery, and the voltage regulator is used to convert the voltage output by the first thermoelectric element from a third voltage to a fourth voltage, wherein the third voltage is less than the fourth voltage.

7. The switching circuit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The switching circuit also includes a PMIC, and the output terminal of the battery is connected to the PMIC. In the transient scenario, if the battery is not connected to a charger, or if the battery is connected to a fast charger, the second switch is specifically used to turn on the USB interface / VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC and the input terminal of the voltage regulator; if the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, the second switch is specifically used to turn on the VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC and the input terminal of the voltage regulator. In the steady-state scenario, if the battery is not connected to a charger, or if the battery is connected to a fast charger, the second switch is specifically used to turn on the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the USB interface / VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC; if the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, the second switch is specifically used to turn on the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC.

8. The switching circuit according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The first device includes one or more of the following: a chip, a power amplifier (PA), and a memory.

9. The switching circuit according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the first device is a chip, characterized in that, The transient scenario includes one or more of the following: the chip updates the system, the chip starts a first type of application, the chip runs a first type of application, the chip continuously starts multiple second type of applications, the baseband processor in the chip is occupied, and the battery is connected to the charger and is in the constant current charging stage, wherein the power consumption of running the first type of application is greater than the power consumption of running the second type of application. The steady-state scenario includes one or more of the following: the chip is running a second type of application, the baseband processor is idle, the battery is not connected to the charger, and the battery is connected to the charger and is in the constant voltage charging stage.

10. The switching circuit according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The switching circuit is disposed in an electronic device, the electronic device including a mid-frame, wherein the second end of the first thermoelectric element is closer to the mid-frame than the first end.

11. The switching circuit according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The first thermoelectric element includes multiple thermoelectric elements connected in series.

12. A method for improving the performance of electronic devices, characterized in that, The method is applied to an electronic device, the electronic device including a switching circuit as described in any one of claims 1-11, the method comprising: Upon detecting a transient scenario, the system controls the first switch to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element. Upon detecting a steady-state scenario, the first switch is controlled to connect the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element to the input terminal of the battery.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The transient or steady-state scenario refers to a scenario where the ambient temperature is higher than the second preset temperature.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the ambient temperature is detected to be less than or equal to the second preset temperature, the first switch is controlled to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12-14, characterized in that, The electronic device also includes a voltage regulator. Controlling the first switch to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element specifically includes: controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the battery to the input terminal of the voltage regulator, and controlling the first switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator to the input terminal of the first thermoelectric element; when the transient scenario is detected, the method further includes: controlling the voltage regulator to convert the voltage output by the battery from a first voltage to a second voltage, wherein the first voltage is greater than the second voltage; Controlling the first switch to connect the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element to the input terminal of the battery specifically includes: controlling the first switch to connect the output terminal of the first thermoelectric element to the input terminal of the voltage regulator, and controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator to the input terminal of the battery; when the steady-state scenario is detected, the method further includes: controlling the voltage regulator to convert the voltage output by the first thermoelectric element from a third voltage to a fourth voltage, wherein the third voltage is less than the fourth voltage.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The electronic device also includes a PMIC, and the output terminal of the battery is connected to the PMIC. Controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the battery and the input terminal of the voltage regulator specifically includes: if the battery is not connected to a charger, or if the battery is connected to a fast charger, controlling the second switch to connect the USB interface / VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC and the input terminal of the voltage regulator; if the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, controlling the second switch to connect the VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC and the input terminal of the voltage regulator. Controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator to the input terminal of the battery specifically includes: if the battery is not connected to a charger, or if the battery is connected to a fast charger, controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the USB / VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC; if the battery is connected to a non-fast charger, controlling the second switch to connect the output terminal of the voltage regulator and the VPH-PWR interface of the PMIC.

17. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a switching circuit as described in any one of claims 1-11.

18. A chip system, characterized in that, The chip system includes a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory, the processor executing the computer program to implement the steps of the method as described in any one of claims 12-16.

19. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it performs the steps of the method according to any one of claims 12-16.

20. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it performs the steps of the method according to any one of claims 12-16.

Images