Direct-current dual power supply method, power supply circuit and concentrator

Abstract

This application relates to a DC dual-power supply method, power supply circuit, and hub. The method includes: acquiring power access parameters; determining the power access type based on the power access parameters; if it is a single power access type, controlling the power supply channel corresponding to the single power access type to conduct for system power supply; if it is a mixed power access type, determining a DC power supply strategy based on the power input voltage of each access power source, the DC power supply strategy including a dual-power simultaneous power supply strategy and a single power supply strategy with the highest priority; and supplying power to the system through the dual-power simultaneous power supply strategy or the single power supply strategy with the highest priority. This application can not only meet the simultaneous power supply of multiple power sources, but also provide power supply based on the highest priority access power source, thus meeting a wider range of power supply needs. Furthermore, the hub device integrating multiple power supplies is lower in cost and smaller in size compared to selecting multiple single power supply devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of power control technology, and in particular to DC dual power supply methods, power supply circuits and hubs. Background Technology

[0002] In the current market environment, the choice of power supply method is particularly important for hub products, which serve as bridges connecting multiple electronic devices. Currently, mainstream hub products mainly rely on two power supply modes: DC-JACK power supply and USBPD (Power Delivery) power supply. Each of these power supply methods has its advantages and disadvantages, but also some inherent limitations.

[0003] DC-JACK power supply, with its stable current output and high power handling capacity, has secured a place in high-power applications. However, in scenarios requiring high power output, DC-JACK power supplies are often bulky, increasing the overall product size and potentially impacting user portability, while also being relatively expensive. USB PD power supplies, on the other hand, are favored for their widespread adoption and flexible power allocation capabilities. The USB PD standard supports multiple power levels to meet the charging needs of different devices. However, this flexibility also introduces some complexity. The variety of power levels and types of USB PD power supplies can be confusing for non-professional users. When using a lower-power USB PD power supply to power a hub, the hub itself consumes power to maintain operation, leading to a reduction in actual output power. For some high-power devices, this power loss may prevent them from charging properly, thus affecting the user experience.

[0004] It is evident that the existing power supply methods of hub products cannot simultaneously meet the requirements of low cost and small size while satisfying the increased charging demand. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a DC dual power supply method, power supply circuit, and hub to solve the technical problem that the power supply method of the existing hub products cannot meet the requirements of low cost and small size while satisfying more charging needs.

[0006] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, this application provides a DC dual-power supply method, the method comprising: acquiring power supply access parameters; determining a power supply access type based on the power supply access parameters; if it is a single power supply access type, controlling the power supply channel corresponding to the single power supply access type to be turned on to supply power to the system; if it is a mixed power supply access type, determining a DC power supply strategy based on the power input voltage of each access power supply, the DC power supply strategy including a dual-power supply simultaneous power supply strategy and a single power supply strategy with the highest priority; and supplying power to the system through the dual-power supply simultaneous power supply strategy or the single power supply strategy with the highest priority.

[0007] Optionally, obtaining power access parameters and determining the power access type based on the power access parameters includes: obtaining power access parameters, the power access parameters including at least one of access method, adapted voltage, and adapted power; determining the power access type based on at least one of the access method, adapted voltage, and adapted power, the power access type including a first access power supply and a second access power supply; if the power access type is the first access power supply or the second access power supply, it is determined to be the single power supply access type; if the power access type is both the first access power supply and the second access power supply, it is determined to be the mixed power supply access type.

[0008] Optionally, if it is a mixed power supply access type, determining the DC power supply strategy based on the power input voltage of each access power supply includes: if it is determined to be the mixed power supply access type, determining the access timing of the first access power supply and the second access power supply; prioritizing the power supply channel corresponding to the first access power supply based on the access timing; after the power supply channel corresponding to the first access power supply is activated, detecting the first power input voltage of the first access power supply and the second power input voltage of the second access power supply; selecting the dual-power supply simultaneous power supply strategy or the highest priority single-power supply strategy based on the magnitude of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage.

[0009] Optionally, selecting the dual-power simultaneous supply strategy or the highest-priority single-power supply strategy based on the magnitudes of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage includes: determining whether the magnitudes of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are the same; if the magnitudes of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are the same, then the dual-power simultaneous supply strategy is selected, wherein the dual-power simultaneous supply strategy includes turning on the first power supply channel and the second power supply channel; if the magnitudes of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are different, then the highest-priority single-power supply strategy is selected, wherein the priority determination principle includes that the priority of the second power supply channel is higher than the priority of the first power supply channel, or the power input voltage of the connected power supply is greater, and the higher the priority.

[0010] Optionally, the system power supply strategy using the highest priority single power supply includes: determining whether the first power supply channel is the second power supply channel; if the first power supply channel is the first power supply channel, then closing the first power supply channel and turning on the second power supply channel, and supplying power to the system through the second access power supply; if the first power supply channel is the second power supply channel, then keeping the second power supply channel on and the first power supply channel inactive, and supplying power to the system through the second access power supply.

[0011] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, this application provides a DC dual power supply circuit, which is applicable to the DC dual power supply method described in the embodiments. The circuit includes: a first power supply circuit, a second power supply circuit, and a logic control circuit. The first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit are respectively connected to the logic control circuit. The first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit are used to provide system power simultaneously or individually. The logic control circuit is used to control the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to provide system power.

[0012] Optionally, the first power supply circuit includes a first access power source and a first switch control circuit, wherein the first access power source is connected to the first switch control circuit, and the first switch control circuit is also connected to the logic control circuit.

[0013] Optionally, the second power supply circuit includes a second access power supply and a second switch control circuit, wherein the second access power supply is connected to the second switch control circuit, and the second switch control circuit is also connected to the logic control circuit.

[0014] Optionally, the logic control circuit includes a main control circuit, a logic judgment circuit, and a logic control power supply. The main control circuit is connected to the logic judgment circuit, and the logic control power supply connects the main control circuit and the logic judgment circuit to provide power. The main control circuit is also connected to the second access power supply, and the logic judgment circuit is also connected to the first switch control circuit and the second switch control circuit.

[0015] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, this application provides a hub that is powered by a DC dual power supply based on the described DC dual power supply method.

[0016] Compared with related technologies, the technical solutions provided in this application have the following advantages:

[0017] This application provides a DC dual power supply method. By quickly determining the power supply type based on the different power supply access parameters, the power supply channel corresponding to the power supply type can be activated to supply power to the system more quickly. When a mixed power supply access type is determined, the DC power supply strategy is determined based on the voltage input voltage of each power supply. For different access methods, dual power supply can be used simultaneously or a single power supply with the highest priority can be used. Compared with the traditional single power supply method, it can not only meet the simultaneous power supply of multiple power supplies, but also provide power supply based on the highest priority power supply. It can meet both small power requirements and large output power requirements. Moreover, the hub device integrating multiple power supplies is lower in cost and smaller in size than selecting multiple single power supply devices. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware environment for an optional DC dual power supply method provided according to an embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of an optional DC dual power supply method according to an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 3This is a system control schematic diagram of an optional DC dual power supply circuit according to an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an optional DC dual power supply circuit according to an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an optional power supply channel control process provided according to an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another optional power supply channel control process provided according to an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another optional power supply channel control process provided according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0028] To address the problems mentioned in the background art, according to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, an embodiment of a DC dual power supply method is provided.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the above-described DC dual power supply method can be applied to, for example... Figure 1 The hardware environment shown is described. The system architecture 100 of the hardware environment includes a terminal device 101 and a server 103. The server 103 is connected to the terminal 101 via a network and can be used to provide services to the terminal or clients installed on the terminal. A database 105 can be set up on the server or independently of the server to provide data storage services to the server 103. The network can include various connection types, such as wired, wireless communication links, or fiber optic cables, etc.

[0030] It should be noted that the hub suitable for the DC dual-power supply method is a physical layer network device. Its main function is to connect multiple network devices together, allowing these devices to transmit data over the same physical medium. It can also regenerate, shape, amplify, or convert received signals to extend the network's transmission distance and perform signal mode conversion. These network devices include, but are not limited to, servers, computers, and printers. Therefore, the hub suitable for the DC dual-power supply method can be used to achieve… Figure 1 Connection between terminal device 101 and server 103.

[0031] It should be noted that the server provided in this embodiment can be the server 103 mentioned above, the device provided in this embodiment can be the terminal device 101 mentioned above, and the client provided in this embodiment can be an APP installed on the terminal device 101.

[0032] Users can use terminal device 101 to interact with server 103 via a network to receive or send messages, etc. Various communication client applications can be installed on terminal device 101, such as web browser applications, search applications, instant messaging tools, etc. Terminal device 101 can be various electronic devices with a display screen that support web browsing, including but not limited to smartphones, tablets, e-book readers, MP3 players, MP4 players, laptops, and desktop computers, etc. Server 103 can be a server that provides various services, such as a backend server that supports the pages displayed on terminal device 101.

[0033] It should be noted that the DC dual power supply method provided in this application embodiment is generally executed by a server and / or terminal device, and correspondingly, a DC dual power supply circuit is generally disposed in the server / terminal device. Furthermore, it should be understood that... Figure 1 The number of terminal devices, networks, and servers shown is merely illustrative. Depending on implementation needs, any number of terminal devices, networks, and servers can be included.

[0034] like Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a DC dual-power supply method provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Taking the DC dual-power supply method being executed by a server as an example, a DC dual-power supply method includes the following steps:

[0035] Step S202: Obtain power access parameters and determine the power access type based on the power access parameters.

[0036] The DC dual power supply method provided in this embodiment is applicable to various hubs, and can also be extended to scenarios where backup power is supplied by PD (Power Delivery). It can also cover applications of similar products, such as network devices like switches, bridges, routers, and gateways. The aforementioned hubs can refer to HUBs and Docks, whose main function is to regenerate, shape, amplify, or convert received signals to extend network transmission distance and perform signal mode conversion. The aforementioned power access types can include DC-JACK power supplies and USB power supplies; of course, other types can also be included, such as external power adapters and PoE (Power over Ethernet) power supplies. The aforementioned USB power supply can be a power supply supplied via a USB PD (USB Power Delivery) cable, capable of supporting USB power delivery up to 240W. The aforementioned DC-JACK power supply can refer to a power supply that uses a DC-JACK socket for DC power supply, typically with a voltage range between 5V and 24V.

[0037] In this embodiment, the collected power access parameters differ when different power supply circuits are connected. These power access parameters may include, but are not limited to, the power input voltage, power input current, communication protocol, and interface type provided by the connected power supply. When a power supply is connected, the power access type is identified by acquiring the power access parameters. Specifically, power access type identification can be performed by acquiring at least one power access parameter.

[0038] As one possible implementation, the power input voltage and current of the connected power source can be read, and the power input type can be determined by combining the power input voltage and current. For example, if only the value read is 26V / 5A, which is far beyond the range that a DC-JACK power source can provide, then it can be determined that the power source is a USB PD power source.

[0039] As another possible implementation, the DC-JACK power supply can be used without a communication protocol. The USB PD power supply communicates and negotiates voltage and current through the CC line of the USB Type-C interface. The power supply type can be determined based on the obtained communication protocol. For example, if only the obtained communication protocol is that the voltage and current are negotiated through the CC line of the USB Type-C interface, then it is determined that the power supply is powered by the USB PD power supply.

[0040] As another possible implementation, the interface type of the power supply can also be obtained for identification. For example, a DC-JACK power supply uses a round DC plug, and a USB PD power supply uses a USB Type-C interface. If the interface of the circuit is identified as only a round DC plug, it is determined to be powered by a DC-JACK power supply.

[0041] Step S204: If it is a single power supply access type, control the power supply channel corresponding to the single power supply access type to be turned on to supply power to the system.

[0042] In this embodiment, after obtaining the power access parameters, if only one power access parameter is included, it is determined to be a single power access type. This includes situations where only one power source, such as a DC-JACK power source or a USB power source, is connected to the power interface corresponding to the hub, which is considered an input single power access type. Different power sources correspond to different power supply channels.

[0043] Furthermore, if only a single power source is connected, it is only necessary to control the power supply channel corresponding to the connected power source to supply power to the system. For example, if a DC-JACK power source is connected, the power supply channel connected to the DC-JACK power source will be activated to supply power. When a high-power power source of any type is connected, a wider range of output power requirements can be met; when a low-power power source is connected, low-power output requirements can be met, and the output power range of the high-power power source can cover the output power of the low-power power source. Therefore, a higher-power power source can output the same voltage as a lower-power power source.

[0044] Step S206: If it is a mixed power supply access type, then determine the DC power supply strategy based on the power input voltage of each access power supply. The DC power supply strategy includes a dual power supply simultaneous power supply strategy and a single power supply strategy with the highest priority.

[0045] In this embodiment, the power access parameters may include the power input voltage. After obtaining the power access parameters, if multiple power access parameters are included, it is determined to be a mixed power access type. The aforementioned mixed power access type may include multiple power supplies of the same type being connected together, or it may include multiple power supplies of different types being connected together. For example, when one DC-JACK power supply and one USB power supply are connected to different power interfaces corresponding to the hub, it is determined to be a mixed power access type. As another example, when two DC-JACK power supplies are connected to different power interfaces corresponding to the hub, it is also determined to be a mixed power access type. If the hub is connected to multiple power supplies, the power input voltage of each power supply can be obtained, and the DC power supply strategy can be determined based on the power input voltage of each power supply, determining whether to supply power simultaneously with dual power supplies or to supply power through the single power supply with the highest priority.

[0046] The dual-power supply strategy refers to supplying power through the joint operation of different types of connected power sources, all of which have the same input voltage. The highest-priority single-power supply strategy involves selecting the highest-priority power source and shutting off the conduction channels of the other power sources. In this embodiment, the priority principle is that the higher the input voltage, the higher the priority level.

[0047] Step S208: Power the system using the dual-power simultaneous power supply strategy or the highest priority single power supply strategy.

[0048] In this embodiment, after determining the power supply strategy based on the power input voltage of the connected power source, the corresponding power supply channel can be activated to supply power to the system according to the determined power supply strategy. Specifically, this can include: if the connector is connected to both a DC-JACK power source and a USB power source, and a dual-power supply strategy is determined, then the two power supply channels connected to the DC-JACK power source and the USB power source are activated to supply power to the system; if the connector is connected to both a DC-JACK power source and a USB power source, and a single-power supply strategy with the highest priority is determined, then the power supply channel connected to the USB power source, which has a higher power input voltage, is activated to supply power to the system via the USB power source.

[0049] In this embodiment of the invention, the power access type can be quickly determined based on the different power access parameters of the access power source, so as to speed up the power supply channel corresponding to the power access type to supply power to the system. When it is determined to be a mixed power access type, the DC power supply strategy is determined according to the voltage input voltage of each access power source. For different access methods, dual power supply can be used simultaneously or the highest priority single power supply can be used. Compared with the traditional single power supply method, it can not only meet the simultaneous power supply of multiple power sources, but also provide power supply based on the highest priority access power source. It can meet both small power requirements and large output power requirements. Moreover, the hub device integrating multiple power supply is lower in cost and smaller in size than selecting multiple single power supply devices.

[0050] In some optional embodiments, step S202 above includes:

[0051] S2021, Obtain power access parameters, wherein the power access parameters include at least one of access method, compatible voltage and compatible power;

[0052] S2022, determine the power supply access type based on at least one of the access method, the adaptable voltage and the adaptable power, wherein the power supply access type includes a first access power supply and a second access power supply;

[0053] S2023, if the power access type is the first access power or the second access power, then it is determined to be the single power access type.

[0054] S2024, if the power access type is the first access power and the second access power, then it is determined to be the hybrid power access type.

[0055] In this embodiment, the first power supply can be a DC-JACK power supply. A DC-JACK power supply is typically a DC-JACK socket power supply, mainly used to meet the basic power consumption requirements of the hub system. It is usually a low-voltage, low-power power supply, such as 20V / 1A, 12V / 1A, or 9V / 1.5A. As a low-cost power supply included as standard equipment, it can meet the basic operating requirements of the device. The second power supply can be a USB power supply. The USB power supply is a standard USB PD power supply, mainly using Type-C as the port, conforming to the USB PD fast charging protocol standard, including a universal standard USB adapter, supporting a maximum input power of 5-28V / 5A.

[0056] In this embodiment, different types of power supplies correspond to different interface models or different ways of connecting to the hub's power input port. For example, a DC-JACK power supply connects to the hub's power input port via a DC-JACK socket, while a USB power supply connects to the hub via a Type-C port. Therefore, the connection method can be used to identify the type of power supply. Similarly, different types of power supplies can provide different voltages (compatible voltages) and power (compatible power), which can also be used to identify the type of power supply. The compatible voltage and compatible power can refer to the rated voltage and rated power of the power supply, or they can refer to the input voltage and input power provided by the system. Of course, the type of power supply can also be determined based on other parameters, including but not limited to the power supply's identification and label parameters.

[0057] Furthermore, the type of power supply can be determined based on at least one of the power supply access method, the matching voltage, and the matching power. When only a DC-JACK power supply or a USB power supply is connected, it is determined to be a single power supply access type; when both a DC-JACK power supply and a USB power supply are connected, it is determined to be a mixed power supply access type.

[0058] Furthermore, when only a DC-JACK power supply is connected, a first power input voltage is input through the DC-JACK power supply, and the first power supply channel corresponding to the DC-JACK power supply is activated to supply power to the system based on the first power input voltage. If only a USB power supply is connected, a second power input voltage is input through the USB power supply, and the second power supply channel corresponding to the USB power supply is activated to supply power to the system based on the second power input voltage. If both a DC-JACK power supply and a USB power supply are connected, the DC power supply strategy can be further determined based on the power input voltages of the DC-JACK power supply and the USB power supply.

[0059] In some examples, the hub not only integrates power supply interfaces for multiple access power sources, but also allows for the configuration of multiple identical interfaces for the same access power source. This enables multiple identical or different access power sources to supply power, thereby meeting the increased power supply needs of the hub's load side.

[0060] In this embodiment, by obtaining the access method, compatible voltage, and compatible power of the access power source, the type of access power source can be accurately identified, so as to accurately control the power supply channel of the corresponding access power source to conduct power supply to the system.

[0061] In some optional embodiments, step S206 above includes:

[0062] S2061, if it is determined to be the hybrid power supply access type, then determine the access timing of the first access power supply and the second access power supply;

[0063] S2062, based on the access timing priority, the power supply channel corresponding to the power supply that is accessed first is turned on;

[0064] S2063, after the power supply channel corresponding to the first power supply is connected, the first power input voltage of the first power supply and the second power input voltage of the second power supply are detected.

[0065] S2064, select the dual-power simultaneous power supply strategy or the highest priority single-power supply strategy based on the magnitude of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage.

[0066] In this embodiment, when it is determined to be a hybrid power supply access type, in order to determine the DC power supply strategy, the access timing of the first access power supply and the second access power supply can be obtained first, that is, to determine which power supply is accessed first. The power supply channel corresponding to the first access power supply is turned on first. After the first access power supply is turned on, the first power input voltage of the first access power supply and the second power input voltage of the second access power supply are detected respectively. The first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are compared, and the final power supply strategy is determined based on the comparison result.

[0067] In this embodiment, by prioritizing the power supply channel corresponding to the first connected power source, the system can maintain a power supply before the DC power supply strategy is determined. While ensuring a power supply to the system, the power supply mode can be determined by detecting the first power input voltage of the first connected power source and the second power input voltage of the second connected power source, and comparing these voltages. This determines whether to supply power simultaneously through both power sources or through the highest-priority single power source. Compared to the traditional single-power supply method, this not only satisfies the simultaneous supply of multiple power sources but also allows for power supply based on the highest-priority connected power source, meeting both lower and higher output power requirements.

[0068] In some optional embodiments, step S2064 specifically includes:

[0069] Determine whether the magnitudes of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are the same;

[0070] If the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are the same, then the dual power supply simultaneous power supply strategy is selected. The dual power supply simultaneous power supply strategy includes turning on the first power supply channel and the second power supply channel.

[0071] If the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are different, the highest priority single power supply strategy is selected. The priority determination principle includes that the priority of the second power supply channel is higher than that of the first power supply channel, or the power input voltage of the connected power supply is greater and has a higher priority.

[0072] In this embodiment, the second power supply voltage can cover the first power supply voltage. That is, the second power supply voltage of the USB power input can be equal to or greater than the first power supply voltage of the DC-JACK power input. Therefore, the first power supply voltage and the second power supply voltage can be compared to determine whether they are the same.

[0073] In one example, if the first power supply voltage and the second power supply voltage are detected to be the same, then a dual power supply strategy is selected. This requires turning on the first power supply channel connected to the USB power supply and simultaneously turning on the second power supply channel connected to the DC-JACK power supply, so that the hub system is powered by both the USB power supply and the DC-JACK power supply.

[0074] In other examples, if a voltage difference is detected between the first and second power supplies, the highest-priority power supply is selected to power the system. The priority determination principle can be fixed or dynamic. In a fixed manner, the second power supply channel is pre-selected as having a higher priority than the first power supply channel. Therefore, if a voltage difference is detected between the first and second power supplies, the second power supply channel is activated regardless of the voltage magnitude, while the first power supply channel is either deactivated or remains inactive. In a dynamic manner, the higher the provided power input voltage, the higher its priority. The higher voltage is selected by comparing the first and second power supply voltages. For example, if the first input voltage provided by the USB power supply is higher than the second input voltage provided by the DC-JACK power supply, the second power supply channel is activated, while the first power supply channel is either deactivated or remains inactive.

[0075] In this embodiment, by comparing the first input voltage and the second input voltage, the power supply channel that is turned on can be determined according to the comparison result, and the corresponding power supply method can be selected. This not only enables multiple power supplies to be supplied together, but also allows the highest priority power supply to be connected, providing a wider range of power options for the load side of the hub.

[0076] In some optional embodiments, step S208 above includes:

[0077] S2081, determine whether the power supply channel that is first turned on is the second power supply channel;

[0078] S2082, if the first power supply channel is the first power supply channel that is first turned on, then the first power supply channel is turned off and the second power supply channel is turned on, and the system is powered through the second access power supply;

[0079] S2083, if the first power supply channel to be turned on is the second power supply channel, then the second power supply channel is kept on and the first power supply channel is not activated, and the system is powered by the second access power supply.

[0080] In this embodiment, after selecting the highest priority single power supply strategy for system power supply, it is necessary to analyze the previously activated power supply channels to determine whether the previously activated power supply channels are the second power supply channels with the highest priority.

[0081] In some examples, if the first power supply channel is the one that is initially activated, a power supply channel switch is required to activate the second power supply channel while simultaneously deactivating the first power supply channel. This allows the system to be powered via USB, providing greater output power and voltage. USB power is more widely used and offers hub products more power supply options.

[0082] In other examples, if the first power supply channel is the second power supply channel, the second power supply channel is kept on and the first power supply channel is not activated. The system is powered by USB power, providing the system with greater output power and output voltage.

[0083] In this embodiment, when the highest priority access power supply is selected for power supply, it is determined whether the first power supply channel is the second power supply channel. If it is not the second power supply channel, the channel is switched on and the first power supply channel is turned off or does not operate. This ensures that the USB provides power to the system, which can provide the system with greater output power and output voltage, and is more conducive to meeting the needs of hub products for more power supply options.

[0084] In this embodiment, the power supply type can be quickly determined based on the different power supply parameters of the connected power source, thereby accelerating the activation of the power supply channel corresponding to the power supply type to power the system. By acquiring the connection method, compatible voltage, and compatible power of the connected power source, the type of connected power source can be accurately identified, allowing for precise control of the activation of the corresponding power supply channel to power the system. By prioritizing the activation of the power supply channel corresponding to the first connected power source, the system can maintain a connected power source for power supply before determining the DC power supply strategy. Under the premise of ensuring that the system has a power supply, by detecting the first power input voltage of the first connected power source and the second power input voltage of the second connected power source respectively, the power supply mode of the system can be determined by voltage comparison. This determines whether to supply power through dual power sources simultaneously or through the single power source with the highest priority. Compared with the traditional single power supply mode, this not only meets the requirement of multiple power sources supplying power simultaneously but also allows for power supply based on the highest priority connected power source, satisfying both lower power requirements and higher output power requirements. When the highest priority power supply is selected, the system checks if the first power channel is the second power channel. If not, it switches the channel to power the first channel and shuts it down or does nothing, ensuring that the USB power supply provides the system with greater output power and voltage. This allows for more power supply options for hub products. Furthermore, hubs integrating multiple power supplies are more cost-effective and smaller than using multiple individual power supply devices.

[0085] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, in conjunction with Figure 3As shown, this application provides a DC dual power supply circuit, applicable to the DC dual power supply method described in the above embodiments. The circuit includes: a first power supply circuit 1, a second power supply circuit 2, and a logic control circuit 3. The first power supply circuit 1 and the second power supply circuit 2 are respectively connected to the logic control circuit 3. The first power supply circuit 1 and the second power supply circuit 2 are used to supply power to the system simultaneously or individually. The logic control circuit 3 is used to control the first power supply circuit 1 and the second power supply circuit 2 to supply power to the system.

[0086] In this embodiment, the aforementioned DC dual power supply circuit can be integrated into the hub to implement the DC dual power supply method described in the above embodiment. The first power supply circuit 1 is typically powered by a DC-JACK socket power supply, primarily to meet the basic power consumption requirements of the hub system. It is usually a low-voltage, low-power power supply, such as 20V / 1A, 12V / 1A, or 9V / 1.5A. As a low-cost power supply included as standard equipment, it meets the basic operating requirements of the device. The second power supply circuit 2 is typically powered by a standard USB PD, primarily using a Type-C port, conforming to the USB PD fast charging protocol standard. It is usually a universal standard USB adapter, supporting a maximum input power of 5-28V / 5A. The second power supply circuit 2 serves as the user's preferred power supply channel, i.e., the highest priority power supply channel, allowing connection to the customer's own standard USB adapter, providing the hub system with stronger charging capabilities while reducing overall costs.

[0087] In this embodiment, the logic control circuit 3 is connected to the first power supply circuit 1 and the second power supply circuit 2 respectively, and can be used to control which of the first power supply circuit 1 and the second power supply circuit 2 supplies power to the hub system alone, or to control the first power supply circuit 1 and the second power supply circuit 2 to supply power to the hub system at the same time.

[0088] In this embodiment, by integrating the first power supply circuit 1 and the second power supply circuit 2 into the circuit and controlling them through logic circuits, it is possible to achieve power supply via DC-JACK power or USB power. Furthermore, based on hub control, it is also possible to enable both DC-JACK power and USB power to jointly power the hub system. Compared with the traditional single power supply method, this not only enables multiple power supply methods on a single hub product, enhancing the diversity of power supply methods, but also meets both lower power requirements and higher output power requirements. Moreover, hub devices that integrate multiple power supplies are lower in cost and smaller in size than those that select multiple single power supply devices.

[0089] In some optional embodiments, the first power supply circuit 1 includes a first access power supply 11 and a first switch control circuit 12, wherein the first access power supply 11 is connected to the first switch control circuit 12, and the first switch control circuit 12 is also connected to the logic control circuit 3.

[0090] Combination Figure 4 As shown, the first power supply circuit 1 serves as the default power supply channel, the first access power supply 11 can be a DC-JACK power supply, and the first switch control circuit 12 is connected to the DC-JACK power supply and the logic control circuit 3. It is used to turn on or off the power supply channel of the first power supply circuit 1 according to the control of the logic control circuit 3 to realize system power supply.

[0091] In some examples, combined Figure 4 As shown, the first switch control circuit 12 can be implemented using two back-to-back P-type or N-type MOSFETs. The logic control circuit 3 controls the on / off state of these two back-to-back P-type or N-type MOSFETs, thereby controlling the power supply channel of the first power supply circuit 1 to either power the system from the DC-JACK power supply or disconnect the DC-JACK power supply. For example, the first switch circuit in the first power supply circuit 1 is implemented using two P-MOSFETs, Q1 and Q2.

[0092] In this embodiment, a DC-JACK power supply can be connected to the circuit, which can meet the basic requirements of low voltage and low power. Furthermore, the on / off control of the power supply channel corresponding to the first power supply circuit 1 can be achieved through the first switch control circuit 12, which can meet the switching of power supply channels and thus provide the possibility of switching between different power supply needs of the hub.

[0093] In some optional embodiments, the second power supply circuit 2 includes a second access power supply 21 and a second switch control circuit 22, the second access power supply 21 being connected to the second switch control circuit 22, and the second switch control circuit 22 being connected to the logic control circuit 3.

[0094] Combination Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the second access power source 21 can be a USB power source, powered by a USB adapter, and can achieve standard USB PD power supply. The second switch control circuit 22 is connected to the USB power source and the logic control circuit 3. Based on the logic control circuit 3, the second switch control circuit 22 is turned on or off, thereby controlling whether the USB power source supplies power to the system or disconnects the USB power supply.

[0095] In some examples, combined Figure 4As shown, the second switch control circuit 22 can be implemented using two back-to-back P-type or N-type MOSFETs. The logic control circuit 3 controls the on / off state of these two back-to-back P-type or N-type MOSFETs, thereby controlling the power supply channel of the second power supply circuit 2 to either power the system via USB or disconnect the USB power supply. For example, the second switch circuit in the second power supply circuit 2 is implemented using two P-MOSFETs, Q4 and Q5.

[0096] It should be noted that the first switch control circuit 12 and the second switch control circuit 22 in this application embodiment are illustrated using MOSFET transistors. In fact, ICs or circuits with similar functions are all within the protection scope of this application, and will not be listed one by one here.

[0097] In this embodiment, a USB power supply can be connected to the circuit for USB PD power supply. USB power supply allows for a wider range of voltage and power output, providing more power to meet various needs. Furthermore, the second switch control circuit 22 can control the on / off state of the power supply channel corresponding to the second power supply circuit 2, enabling switching between power supply channels and thus providing the possibility to switch between different power supply requirements of the hub.

[0098] In some alternative embodiments, combined with Figure 4 As shown, the logic control circuit 3 includes a main control circuit 31, a logic judgment circuit 32, and a logic control power supply 33. The main control circuit 31 is connected to the logic judgment circuit 32, and the logic control power supply 33 supplies power to both the main control circuit 31 and the logic judgment circuit 32. The main control circuit 31 is also connected to the second access power supply 21, and the logic judgment circuit 32 is also connected to the first switch control circuit 12 and the second switch control circuit 22.

[0099] In this embodiment, the logic control circuit 3 may include a main control circuit 31, a logic judgment circuit 32, and a logic control power supply 33. The main control circuit 31 may be a PD controller or an MCU master controller, connected to the second access power supply 21. It is mainly used to detect the insertion of the USB adapter via the CC (Configuration Channel) and output corresponding control commands to the logic judgment circuit 32 to control the corresponding power supply channel to be turned on or off. The logic judgment circuit 32 is mainly used to control the on / off state of the first switch control circuit 12 and the second switch control circuit 22 according to the commands of the PD controller or MCU master controller; that is, it is a drive circuit. The logic control power supply 33 may be a Buck or LDO power chip, used to provide operating power to the control circuit and the logic judgment circuit 32. CC detection refers to detecting the connection status, power role, data role, and configuration-related power and data transmission settings of the USB adapter via the CC pin during the USB Type-C interface connection process.

[0100] In some examples, combined Figure 4 As shown, the main control circuit 31 described above may include a U2 chip. The U2 can be implemented by a PD protocol controller or an MCU with equivalent functions. Its main functions include: detecting the USB adapter inserted into the Type-C port through pins 6 / 7CC of the U2 chip; detecting the power input voltage of the USB power supply through pin 8 of the U2 chip; performing ADC detection on the power input voltage (VBUS-1) of the DC-JACK power supply through pin 3 of the U2 chip; and controlling the power supply channel to open / close by outputting a high / low level control logic judgment circuit 32 through pins 9 and 4 of the U2 chip.

[0101] In some examples, combined Figure 4 As shown, the logic judgment circuit 32 can be implemented using insulated-gate field-effect transistors (IGFETs) Q3 and Q6, resistors R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5. IGFETs Q3 and Q6 can be N-type MOSFETs, and their models are not limited. The logic judgment circuit 32 mainly uses high / low level outputs from pins 9 and 4 of the U2 chip to drive the switching of the corresponding IGFETs Q6 and Q3, thereby controlling the on / off states of P-MOSFETs Q1 and Q2 in the first switch control circuit 12 and P-MOSFETs Q4 and Q5 in the second switch control circuit 22. The control logic for IGFETs Q6 and Q3 can be configured via software.

[0102] In some examples, combined Figure 4As shown, the logic control power supply 33 can be implemented by diodes D1 and D2 and the U1 high-voltage LDO chip, mainly providing a 3.3V VCC power supply to the U2 chip. Here, LDO stands for Low Dropout Linear Regulator, an electronic component used to convert high voltage to low voltage, providing stable power to sensitive components in electronic devices.

[0103] In this embodiment, the main control circuit 31 can not only detect the insertion of the USB adapter via CC, but also output corresponding control commands to the logic judgment circuit 32. The logic judgment circuit 32 can further control the power supply channels corresponding to the first switch control circuit 12 and the second switch control circuit 22 to be turned on or off according to the control cooling, thereby controlling the DC-JACK power supply and / or USB power supply to power the hub system, meeting different output power requirements. Compared with the traditional single power supply method, multiple power supply methods can be realized on a hub product, enhancing the diversity of power supply methods. Moreover, the hub device with integrated multi-power supply is lower in cost and smaller in size than selecting multiple single power supply devices.

[0104] To more clearly explain the working principle of the DC dual power supply circuit provided in this embodiment, the following will provide a detailed analysis of various power access modes.

[0105] Specifically, taking the DC-JACK power supply as the first input power source 11 and the USB power supply as the second input power source 21 as an example, the analysis includes four scenarios, as follows:

[0106] When only DC-JACK power is connected: Combined Figure 5As shown, the input voltage of the DC-JACK power supply first passes through the body diode of P-MOSFET Q1, giving voltage to the VBUS_1 network. Then, through diode D1, the U1 chip receives the power input voltage from the VIN pin, resulting in a 3.3V output from U1, which allows the PD controller or MCU of the U2 chip to operate normally. Because VBUS_1 has voltage, the gate (G) terminal of the MOSFET Q3 is pulled high by default, and the drain (D) and source (S) terminals of MOSFET Q3 are turned on. After voltage division by resistors R1 and R2, the gate voltage of P-MOSFETs Q1 and Q2 becomes half of VBUS_1. Since Vgs > Vgs(th) = -1.8V for P-MOSFETs Q1 and Q2, they are turned on, opening the first power supply channel corresponding to the first power supply circuit 1. This allows the DC-JACK power supply to power the entire hub system normally, maintaining stable system operation. The range of the difference between Vgs and Vgs(th) can be determined based on the device parameters, specifically by referring to the general MOSFET datasheet. The difference may vary slightly for different MOSFETs, but all remain within the constraints.

[0107] When only the Type-C USB adapter is connected: Combined Figure 6As shown, the CC pin of the U2 chip is pulled down by default, allowing the USB power supply to output 5V. Since the USB power supply is connected to pins 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the P-MOSFET Q4, the 5V voltage passes through the body diode of the P-MOSFET Q4, providing 5V to the VBUS_2 network. Then, through diode D2, it provides the LDO power supply input voltage to the U1 chip. Thus, the U1 chip converts and outputs 3.3V to the U2 chip, allowing the PD controller or MCU of the U2 chip to work properly. Then, the U2 chip can trick the USB power supply voltage into adjusting to 20V according to the USB PD protocol. When the U2 chip detects a voltage of 20V through pin 8, pin 9 of the U2 chip outputs a high level to GATE1, turning on the drain and source terminals of the field-effect transistor Q6. After voltage division by resistors R4 and R5, the gate voltage of P-MOSFETs Q4 and Q5 becomes half of VBUS_2, approximately 10V. The voltages of P-MOSFETs Q4 and Q5 are Vgs < Vgs(th), and Vgs < Vgs(th) = -2.2V. The Vgs(th) voltage varies depending on the selected MOSFET and can be set according to the voltage division values ​​of resistors R4 and R5. P-MOSFETs Q4 and Q5 are turned on, opening the power supply channel corresponding to the USB power supply. At this time, since P-MOSFET Q6 is grounded, GATE2 becomes low, the G terminal of MOSFET Q3 is pulled low, MOSFET Q3 is turned off, and Vgs(th) of P-MOSFETs Q1 and Q2 is 0, thus turning off the first power supply channel corresponding to the first power supply circuit 1. At this time, the power supply of the entire system is provided by the second power supply channel corresponding to the second power supply circuit 2.

[0108] For dual power supply access scenarios, combined with Figure 7 As shown:

[0109] When plugging in the DC-JACK power supply first, followed by the USB power supply: Follow the steps described above. Figure 5The illustrated process opens the first power supply channel corresponding to the first power supply circuit 1. When the USB power supply is plugged in, pin 3ADC of the U2 chip performs a voltage divider through resistors R6 and R7, with a voltage division ratio of 5.6:1. After voltage division, the DC-JACK voltage is detected. If the input voltages of the two power supplies are the same, the U2 chip outputs a high level through pins 9 and 4, respectively, opening both the first and second power supply channels simultaneously to power the system. Because the USB power supply provides a wider voltage range than the DC-JACK power supply, it better meets the user's power supply needs. Therefore, the USB power supply can be preset to have a higher priority than the DC-JACK power supply. When two power supplies are connected simultaneously and provide different voltages, the USB power supply with higher priority can be selected for power supply. Therefore, if the input voltages of the two power supplies are detected to be different, pin 4GATE2 of the U2 chip first outputs a low level to close the first power supply channel, and then pin 9GATE1 of the U2 chip outputs a high level to open the second power supply channel to power the system.

[0110] If you plug in the USB power supply first, then plug in the DC-JACK power supply: then follow the instructions. Figure 6 The process executes by prioritizing the activation of the second power supply channel. When the DC-JACK power supply is plugged in, pin 3 of the U2 chip performs VBUS_1 voltage detection of the DC-JACK after voltage division by resistors R6 and R7. If the input voltages of the USB power supply H and the DC-JACK power supply are the same, the first power supply channel will continue to be activated in addition to the second power supply channel to jointly power the system. If the input voltages are different, the second power supply channel will remain activated to continue powering the system, while the first power supply channel will remain off.

[0111] It should be noted that the models of the electronic components in the above circuit are not unique. Different materials can be selected to implement them depending on the driving method. The above description is based on two power supplies, but it is not limited to the use of hubs and similar devices with more than two power supplies.

[0112] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, this application provides a hub that provides DC dual power supply based on the aforementioned DC dual power supply method. The hub provided in this embodiment may integrate the DC dual power supply circuit described above, and the hub system can be supplied with DC dual power supply based on the DC dual power supply circuit using the DC dual power supply method. The hub provided in this embodiment can implement various embodiments of the aforementioned DC dual power supply method and achieve the corresponding effects; to avoid repetition, these will not be described in detail here.

[0113] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, this application provides a computer device that can realize data interaction between various devices through the hub provided in the above embodiments. The computer device includes a memory, a processor, a communication interface, and a communication bus. The memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor. The memory and the processor communicate with each other through the communication interface and the communication bus. When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the steps of the above-described DC dual power supply method.

[0114] The memory and processor in the aforementioned computer equipment communicate with each other via a communication bus and a communication interface. The communication bus can be a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus or an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, etc. This communication bus can be divided into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc.

[0115] The memory may include random access memory (RAM) or non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device. Optionally, the memory may also be at least one storage device located remotely from the aforementioned processor.

[0116] The processors mentioned above can be general-purpose processors, including central processing units (CPUs), network processors (NPs), etc.; they can also be digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components.

[0117] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a computer program product or computer program is also provided, which includes computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium. The hub's processor reads the computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the computer instructions, causing the hub to perform the steps of the DC dual-power supply method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0118] Optionally, specific examples in this embodiment can refer to the examples described in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here. Furthermore, in the specific implementation of this application embodiment, the above embodiments can be consulted, and corresponding technical effects can be achieved.

[0119] It is understood that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, or a combination thereof. For hardware implementation, the processing unit can be implemented in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), general-purpose processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, other electronic units for performing the functions described herein, or combinations thereof.

[0120] For software implementation, the techniques described herein can be implemented by units that perform the functions described herein. Software code can be stored in memory and executed by a processor. If the functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, in essence, or the parts that contribute to the prior art, or parts of the technical solutions, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0121] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprise," "include," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprises a…" does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0122] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.

Claims

1. A DC dual-power supply method, characterized in that, The method includes: Obtain power access parameters and determine the power access type based on the power access parameters; If it is a single power supply access type, then control the power supply channel corresponding to the single power supply access type to be turned on to supply power to the system; If it is a mixed power supply access type, the DC power supply strategy is determined based on the power input voltage of each access power supply. The DC power supply strategy includes a dual power supply strategy and a single power supply strategy with the highest priority. The system is powered by either the dual-power simultaneous power supply strategy or the highest-priority single-power supply strategy.

2. The DC dual power supply method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of obtaining power access parameters and determining the power access type based on the power access parameters includes: Obtain power access parameters, which include at least one of access method, compatible voltage and compatible power; The power access type is determined based on at least one of the access method, the adapted voltage, and the adapted power, and the power access type includes a first access power supply and a second access power supply. If the power access type is the first access power or the second access power, then it is determined to be the single power access type. If the power access type is the first access power and the second access power, then it is determined to be the hybrid power access type.

3. The DC dual power supply method according to claim 2, characterized in that, If it is a hybrid power supply access type, the DC power supply strategy is determined based on the power input voltage of each access power supply, including: If it is determined to be the hybrid power supply access type, then determine the access timing of the first access power supply and the second access power supply; Based on the access timing, the power supply channel corresponding to the power supply that is connected first is turned on first; After the power supply channel corresponding to the first connected power source is connected, the first power input voltage of the first connected power source and the second power input voltage of the second connected power source are detected. The dual-power supply strategy or the highest-priority single-power supply strategy is selected based on the magnitudes of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage.

4. The DC dual power supply method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of selecting the dual-power simultaneous supply strategy or the highest-priority single-power supply strategy based on the magnitudes of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage includes: Determine whether the magnitudes of the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are the same; If the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are the same, then the dual power supply simultaneous power supply strategy is selected. The dual power supply simultaneous power supply strategy includes turning on the first power supply channel and the second power supply channel. If the first power input voltage and the second power input voltage are different, the highest priority single power supply strategy is selected. The priority determination principle includes that the priority of the second power supply channel is higher than that of the first power supply channel, or the power input voltage of the connected power supply is greater and has a higher priority.

5. The DC dual power supply method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The system is powered by the highest priority single-power-supply strategy, including: Determine whether the first power supply channel is the second power supply channel; If the first power supply channel is the one that is first turned on, then the first power supply channel is turned off and the second power supply channel is turned on, and the system is powered by the second access power supply. If the first power supply channel to be activated is the second power supply channel, then the second power supply channel remains activated and the first power supply channel remains inactive, and the system is powered by the second access power source.

6. A DC dual power supply circuit, applicable to the DC dual power supply method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The circuit includes: a first power supply circuit, a second power supply circuit, and a logic control circuit, wherein the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit are respectively connected to the logic control circuit; The first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit are used to provide system power simultaneously or individually. The logic control circuit is used to control the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to provide system power.

7. The DC dual power supply circuit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first power supply circuit includes a first access power source and a first switch control circuit. The first access power source is connected to the first switch control circuit, and the first switch control circuit is also connected to the logic control circuit.

8. The DC dual power supply circuit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second power supply circuit includes a second access power source and a second switch control circuit. The second access power source is connected to the second switch control circuit, and the second switch control circuit is also connected to the logic control circuit.

9. The DC dual power supply circuit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The logic control circuit includes a main control circuit, a logic judgment circuit, and a logic control power supply. The main control circuit is connected to the logic judgment circuit, and the logic control power supply is connected to the main control circuit and the logic judgment circuit to provide power. The main control circuit is also connected to the second access power supply, and the logic judgment circuit is also connected to the first switch control circuit and the second switch control circuit.

10. A hub, characterized in that, The hub is powered by a DC dual power supply based on the DC dual power supply method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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