Power supply control method and power supply control framework

Abstract

The embodiment of the present disclosure provides a power supply control method and a power supply control framework. A powered device generates power supply control information according to device data, the powered device sends the power supply control information to a power supply device based on a control signal path, the power supply device analyzes the power supply control information according to a preset control rule to obtain a target output, the power supply device establishes or adjusts an output to the target output, and the power supply device transmits electric energy to the powered device through a main power supply path. When the power supply control intention changes, the powered device re-forms the power supply control information and transmits the power supply control information to the power supply device through the control signal path, the power supply device re-analyzes and adjusts the target output, and a dynamic closed-loop control link is formed. Therefore, a unified power supply control framework can be provided for different product platforms, and adaptive power supply under different device types and different operating states is realized. Meanwhile, the control signal path reuses an existing signal path in a direct current (DC) interface, so that the existing architecture can be maintained and continuous expansion capability can be achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of power supply technology, and in particular to a power supply control method and power supply control framework. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of Mini PCs, HTPCs, NAS, industrial computers, network communication equipment, edge computing devices, and other small electronic products, the round-head DC interface remains a widely used external power supply method. Different products typically use 9V, 12V, 19V, 20V, or other input voltage platforms, and are equipped with adapters of corresponding power ratings, interface specifications, and cables. Traditional solutions usually use fixed output adapters paired with specific powered devices. When initiating a product project, designers primarily select interfaces and adapters based on the device's rated power, input voltage, structural space, and industrial design requirements, and reduce the risk of mis-insertion by using different hole diameters, different center pin structures, or other mechanical features.

[0003] In the traditional model, a fixed output voltage often corresponds to a relatively independent power supply platform. This platform includes not only the adapter itself, but also AC cables, DC cables, plugs, sockets, certification documents, BOMs, inventory, packaging, production line tooling, and after-sales spare parts systems from different countries or regions. As product lines and product generations increase, companies tend to develop a fragmented system with multiple rated voltages, power levels, and interface sizes. Solutions with similar power or size may be repeatedly developed, requiring multiple adapters to be prepared in R&D, testing, production, and after-sales stages, continuously increasing the complexity of procurement and inventory management. Since different projects are usually decided independently, interface sizes tend to proliferate randomly. Even if some sizes can be reused, new specifications may be added due to the lack of a unified reference system, making it difficult to form a manageable and sustainably evolving internal DC power supply ecosystem.

[0004] Meanwhile, existing round-head DC adapters typically employ a fixed output mode. For example, 19V or 20V adapters designed for normal operation maintain a fixed high-voltage output even after the device enters sleep, modern standby, soft shutdown, or other low-load states. The adapter cannot know the current operating status of the powered device, nor can it adjust the target output according to the actual needs of the device. In this situation, the adapter may be operating in a low-load, low-efficiency region, and the power conversion link before the powered device still experiences a large input-output voltage difference, thus limiting the low-power optimization potential of the adapter combined with the overall system.

[0005] Therefore, when traditional fixed output methods meet ERP, Energy Star, or enterprise internal energy efficiency targets, they can usually only optimize the power supply of the adapter itself and the internal power supply of the equipment separately, lacking control means for coordinated adjustment between the adapter and the powered equipment, and thus failing to unify the power supply control framework. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The main objective of this disclosure is to propose a power supply control method, system, and electronic device based on dual-source empirical methods to solve the aforementioned problems.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this disclosure provides a power supply control method applied to a power supply control framework, the power supply control framework including a powered device, a control signal path, and a power supply device, wherein the control signal path multiplexes an existing signal path in a DC interface, and the method includes: The power receiving device generates power supply control information based on device data, wherein the device data includes at least one of the power receiving device's own product attributes, operating status, and control strategy, and the power supply control information is used to indicate the power receiving device's current power supply control intention. The receiving device sends the power supply control information to the power supply device based on the control signal path, wherein the control information flow formed by the power supply control information is directed from the receiving device to the power supply device, and the direction of the control information flow is opposite to the energy flow direction of the power supply device transmitting electrical energy to the receiving device through the main power supply path; The power supply equipment parses the power supply control information according to preset control rules to obtain the target output, wherein the target output includes at least one of output voltage, output current, output power, or power supply status; The power supply equipment will establish or adjust the output to the target output and transmit electrical energy to the power receiving equipment through the main power supply path; When the power supply control intention changes, the powered device reconstructs the power supply control information and transmits it to the power supply device via the control signal path. The power supply device then re-parses and adjusts the target output.

[0008] In some embodiments, the operating state includes a normal operating state, a standby state, and an energy-saving state; When the power supply control information indicates that the powered device is in the normal operating state, the power supply device determines the first target output; When the power supply control information indicates that the powered device is in the standby state, the power supply device determines a second target output, wherein the standby state is a stage in which the powered device is in an abnormal working state but still needs to maintain some system functions, storage state or wake-up capability, and the power consumption of the second target output is lower than the power consumption of the first target output. When the power supply control information indicates that the powered device meets the preset energy-saving conditions and is in the energy-saving state, the power supply device determines a third target output, the power consumption of the third target output being lower than the power consumption of the second target output.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method further includes: When the powered device is in the standby state, the powered device requests to enter the energy-saving state based on whether the preset energy-saving conditions are met; when the powered device generates the conditions for resuming operation, the powered device regenerates the power supply control information corresponding to the normal operating state, so that the power supply device restores the target output to the first target output, wherein the restoration from the energy-saving state does not pass through the intermediate level corresponding to the second target output; After the power receiving device establishes a connection with the power supply device, the power supply device confirms the connection of the power receiving device and establishes a default output according to a preset strategy after the connection confirmation is completed, so as to supply power to the power receiving device through the main power supply path; when the power receiving device enters the normal working state, the power receiving device generates power supply control information corresponding to the normal working state, and the power supply device maintains the output at the first target output according to the power supply control information.

[0010] In some embodiments, the existing signal path is a signal path in the DC interface that was originally used for at least one auxiliary function among connection detection, adapter identification, output enable, or protection against hot-plugging. While retaining the original auxiliary functions of the existing signal path, the existing signal path is extended to be the control signal path that carries the power supply control information. The power supply control information includes at least one of static level, impedance status, pulse, frequency, duty cycle, analog quantity, and digital code, and the control signal path is a single-line path or a multi-line path.

[0011] In some embodiments, the power supply device is provided with a pull-up branch and a control signal sampling unit, and the power receiving device is provided with a pull-down network. The pull-down network includes a default pull-down branch and the at least one controllable parallel pull-down branch. The pull-up branch and the pull-down network form a voltage divider structure through the control signal path. The power receiving device sends the power supply control information to the power supply device based on the control signal path, including: The power receiving device changes the equivalent pull-down impedance of the pull-down network by controlling the conduction state of the controllable parallel pull-down branch, so that the control signal node of the voltage divider structure forms different control voltages corresponding to the power supply control information. The control signal sampling unit collects the control voltage of the control signal node as the power supply control information and sends it to the power supply equipment based on the control signal path.

[0012] In some embodiments, when the powered device is not connected, the control signal node is held at a preset unconnected level by the pull-up branch; when the powered device is connected, the default pull-down branch and the pull-up branch form a voltage divider, and the power supply device identifies the connection of the powered device and determines the default output based on the voltage change of the control signal node; When the control unit of the powered device is not powered, not initialized, or in a power-off state, the powered device maintains the equivalent pull-down impedance corresponding to the preset control state through the default pull-down branch, so that the control signal node forms a control voltage corresponding to the default output. When the control unit of the powered device is activated, the control unit controls part or all of the at least one controllable parallel pull-down branch to be turned on according to the current operating state of the powered device, so as to change the equivalent pull-down impedance and form a control voltage corresponding to the current power supply control intention.

[0013] In some embodiments, the power supply device parses the power supply control information according to preset control rules to obtain a target output, including: The power supply equipment analyzes the control voltage of the control signal node and compares the sampling results with multiple preset identification windows to determine the current control state. Based on the current control state, the target output is determined. Each preset identification window corresponds to a different power supply control intention, and a tolerance range and an undefined area are set between adjacent preset identification windows. When the sampling result falls into the undefined area, the power supply device determines the current control state as an abnormal state, maintains the current output or reverts to the default output, and resamples and confirms the control voltage. The threshold of the preset identification window and the tolerance range are configured based on at least one of the following: power supply voltage, resistance error, cable voltage drop, noise, and sampling accuracy. The number of current control states is expanded by increasing the number of controllable parallel pull-down branches, using multi-level coding, continuously variable impedance, or digital coding.

[0014] In some embodiments, the power supply device establishes or adjusts the output to the target output, including: The power supply equipment verifies the stability of the adjusted output. When it confirms that the output is stable at the target output, the output adjustment is completed. If an output abnormality or control signal abnormality is detected during the verification process, the power supply equipment will revert the output to the output before adjustment or the default output.

[0015] In some embodiments, the power supply device parses the power supply control information according to preset control rules to obtain a target output, including: The power supply equipment parses the acquired power supply control information according to at least one preset control rule among preset mapping relationship, threshold rule, state machine or control algorithm, and determines the target output corresponding to the power supply control information; The target output corresponds to at least two discrete output levels, or to N adjustable output levels, continuously adjustable output, or approximately continuously adjustable output, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 3. The power supply equipment establishes or adjusts the output to the target output, including: the power supply equipment controls the main power conversion unit to establish, maintain or switch the output to the power supply state corresponding to the target output through at least one output adjustment method among feedback reference adjustment, pulse width modulation (PWM) control, digital-to-analog converter (DAC) control or digital power control.

[0016] To achieve the above objectives, a second aspect of this disclosure provides a power supply control framework that executes the power supply control method described in the first aspect embodiment.

[0017] The beneficial effects of the embodiments disclosed herein include: The receiving device generates power supply control information based on device data. It then sends this information to the power supply device via a control signal path. The power supply device parses the information according to preset control rules to obtain the target output. It then establishes or adjusts the output to match the target output and transmits power to the receiving device through the main power supply path. When the power supply control intent changes, the receiving device regenerates the power supply control information and transmits it to the power supply device via the control signal path. The power supply device re-parses and adjusts the target output, forming a dynamic closed-loop control link. Therefore, a unified power supply control framework can be provided for different product platforms, enabling adaptive power supply for different device types and operating states. Furthermore, the control signal path reuses existing signal paths in the DC interface, maintaining the existing architecture and providing continuous scalability. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the power supply control framework provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 2 A flowchart of the power supply control method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 3 An exemplary output gear diagram provided in this disclosure embodiment; Figure 4 This is an exemplary state transition diagram provided for an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5 An exemplary timing diagram provided for an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 6A schematic diagram illustrating the scalability of embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 7 An exemplary hardware implementation block diagram provided for embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 8 This is an exemplary control signal formation schematic diagram provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 9 A schematic diagram of an exemplary control signal recognition window provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary output adjustment process provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The accompanying drawings in the embodiments clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0020] It is understood that when the above embodiments of this disclosure are applied to specific products or technologies, permission or consent from the subject is required, and the collection, use and processing of related data must comply with relevant laws, regulations and standards.

[0021] Furthermore, when this embodiment of the disclosure needs to retrieve relevant data, it will obtain separate permission or separate consent for the relevant data through pop-up windows or redirection to a confirmation page. After clearly obtaining separate permission or separate consent for the relevant data, it will then obtain the necessary relevant data for enabling this embodiment of the disclosure to operate normally.

[0022] In this disclosure, the terms "module" or "unit" refer to a computer program or part of a computer program that has a predetermined function and works with other related parts to achieve a predetermined goal, and can be implemented wholly or partially using software, hardware (such as processing circuitry or memory), or a combination thereof. Similarly, a processor (or multiple processors or memory) can be used to implement one or more modules or units. Furthermore, each module or unit can be part of an overall module or unit that includes the functionality of that module or unit.

[0023] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a power supply control framework provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The power supply control framework includes a powered device, a control signal path, and a power supply device. The control signal path reuses an existing signal path in a DC interface. The power supply control framework simultaneously contains energy flow and control information flow. The energy flow is from the power supply device to the powered device; the control information flow is from the powered device to the power supply device, and the two flows in opposite directions.

[0024] based on Figure 1 The power supply control framework shown is based on... Figure 2 , Figure 2 The flowchart is for a power supply control method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The power supply control method includes, but is not limited to, the following steps S201 to S205.

[0025] Step S201: The powered device generates power supply control information based on the device data; In step S202, the powered device sends power supply control information to the power supply device based on the control signal path; Step S203: The power supply equipment parses the power supply control information according to the preset control rules to obtain the target output; In step S204, the power supply equipment establishes or adjusts the output to the target output and transmits electrical energy to the powered equipment through the main power supply path; In step S205, when the power supply control intention changes, the powered device regenerates the power supply control information and transmits it to the power supply device through the control signal path. The power supply device then re-parses and adjusts the target output.

[0026] The equipment data includes at least one of the following: the product attributes of the powered equipment itself, its operating status, and its control strategy. The power supply control information is used to indicate the current power supply control intention of the powered equipment.

[0027] Specifically, the power supply equipment provides power to the power receiving equipment through the existing main power supply path; the power receiving equipment generates power supply control information based on product attributes, operating status and control strategy, and transmits it to the power supply equipment through the control signal path; the power supply equipment analyzes the information and determines the target output.

[0028] The powered device can be a Mini PC, laptop, NAS, industrial computer, AI Box, network communication equipment, or other electronic devices that use external DC power. The powered device is used to sense its own product attributes, operating status, power requirements, and control strategies, and to generate power supply control information.

[0029] Power supply control information can be generated by EC, MCU, SoC, FPGA, dedicated control unit, or multiple units working together, and the generation method is not limited to software state, hardware state, or a single control source. The control information flow generated by the power supply control information is directed from the powered device to the powered device, and the direction of the control information flow is opposite to the energy flow of the powered device transmitting electrical energy to the powered device through the main power supply path.

[0030] In some embodiments, the powered device generates power supply control information based on product attributes, rated requirements, operating mode, power status, energy-saving strategies, user settings, enterprise strategies, or other control conditions. This power supply control information indicates the current power supply control intent of the powered device and can represent target voltage, target current, target power, output level, operating status, strategy number, or other information that can be used to determine the target output. The power supply control information can be expressed through static level, impedance status, pulse, frequency, duty cycle, analog quantities, digital codes, or other electrical characteristics. Analog quantities can be voltage, current, etc.

[0031] The power supply equipment receives power control information from the powered equipment, detects, identifies, or parses it, and determines the target output according to preset control rules. The power supply equipment uses its existing or newly added output control methods to establish or adjust the main power conversion unit to the corresponding power supply state. The power supply equipment can be an AC adapter, DC power module, centralized power supply, docking station power supply, or other power supply device capable of providing adjustable output to the powered equipment.

[0032] The control signal path is used to carry power supply control information. In some embodiments, the existing signal path is a signal path in the DC interface originally used for at least one auxiliary function such as connection detection, adapter identification, output enable, or protection against hot-plugging. While retaining the original auxiliary functions of the existing signal path, it is extended to become a control signal path carrying power supply control information. Through functional extension, the existing signal path retains its original purpose while further undertaking the function of transmitting power supply control information. The control signal path can be single-wire, multi-wire, wired, or other structures capable of transmitting control information.

[0033] Once the powered device and the power supply device establish a physical connection, a power supply control relationship is established. Unlike traditional DC power supply systems where only unidirectional energy transmission exists, this embodiment of the present disclosure introduces a control process driven by the powered device while maintaining the original power supply link, enabling the output of the power supply device to respond to the control intentions of the powered device.

[0034] After acquiring power supply control information, the power supply equipment parses the information according to preset mapping relationships, threshold rules, state machines, algorithms, or other control rules to determine the target output. The target output can be voltage, current, power, or other power supply states, and can correspond to multiple discrete levels, or it can be a continuous or nearly continuous adjustable output.

[0035] Power supply equipment utilizes its own control unit and output regulation capabilities to establish, maintain, or switch the output to a target state. Output regulation can be achieved through feedback reference adjustment, PWM control, DAC control, digital power control, or other methods.

[0036] When the operating status, power demand, or control strategy of the powered equipment changes, the powered equipment regenerates power supply control information and sends it to the power supply equipment. The power supply equipment re-parses the information and adjusts the target output, enabling the system to re-enter the corresponding power supply state.

[0037] The above process can be executed once, or periodically, by event triggering, or continuously, thus forming a complete dynamic power supply control closed loop.

[0038] In some embodiments, the power supply equipment parses the power supply control information according to preset control rules to obtain the target output. Specifically, the power supply equipment parses the acquired power supply control information according to at least one preset control rule among preset mapping relationship, threshold rule, state machine or control algorithm to determine the target output corresponding to the power supply control information. The target output corresponds to at least two discrete output levels, or corresponds to N adjustable output levels, continuously adjustable output or approximately continuously adjustable output, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 3.

[0039] The power supply equipment establishes or adjusts the output to the target output. Specifically, the power supply equipment controls the main power conversion unit to establish, maintain, or switch the output to the power supply state corresponding to the target output through at least one of the following output adjustment methods: feedback reference adjustment, pulse width modulation (PWM) control, digital-to-analog converter (DAC) control, or digital power supply control.

[0040] The receiving device generates power supply control information based on device data. It then sends this information to the power supply device via a control signal path. The power supply device parses the information according to preset control rules to obtain the target output. It then establishes or adjusts the output to match the target output and transmits power to the receiving device through the main power supply path. When the power supply control intent changes, the receiving device regenerates the power supply control information and transmits it to the power supply device via the control signal path. The power supply device re-parses and adjusts the target output, forming a dynamic closed-loop control link. Therefore, a unified power supply control framework can be provided for different product platforms, enabling adaptive power supply for different device types and operating states. Furthermore, the control signal path reuses existing signal paths in the DC interface, maintaining the existing architecture and providing continuous scalability.

[0041] In some embodiments, the operating states include a normal operating state, a standby state, and a power-saving state; when the power supply control information indicates that the powered device is in a normal operating state, the power supply device determines a first target output; when the power supply control information indicates that the powered device is in a standby state, the power supply device determines a second target output, wherein the standby state is an operating stage in which the powered device is in an abnormal operating state but still needs to maintain some system functions, storage state, or wake-up capability, and the power consumption of the second target output is lower than the power consumption of the first target output; when the power supply control information indicates that the powered device meets the preset energy-saving conditions and is in a power-saving state, the power supply device determines a third target output, and the power consumption of the third target output is lower than the power consumption of the second target output.

[0042] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is an exemplary output level diagram provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exemplarily, the power supply device supports three target output levels: 20V, 12V, and 5V. 20V is used for normal operation, 12V is used for standby, and 5V is used for deep energy saving.

[0043] Reference Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 , Figure 4 This is an exemplary state transition diagram provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5This is an exemplary timing diagram provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. After the powered device and the power supply device establish a connection, the power supply device confirms the connection and establishes a default output according to a preset strategy; in this example, a 20V output is established by default. After the powered device enters normal operating mode, it generates corresponding power supply control information, and the power supply device maintains the normal target output. When the powered device enters standby mode but still needs to maintain some system functions, it regenerates control information, and the power supply device adjusts the target output to 12V. After the powered device continuously meets the preset deep energy-saving conditions, it generates control information again, and the power supply device adjusts the target output to 5V. When a recovery operation condition is generated, regardless of whether the device is currently in standby mode or deep energy-saving mode, it can regenerate the control information corresponding to normal operation, and the power supply device restores the 20V output.

[0044] The above-mentioned processing method can effectively reduce the power consumption of the entire power supply control framework.

[0045] In some embodiments, when the powered device is in standby mode, the powered device requests to enter energy-saving mode based on whether the preset energy-saving conditions are met; when the powered device generates the conditions for resuming operation, the powered device regenerates the power supply control information corresponding to the normal operating state, so that the power supply device restores the target output to the first target output, wherein the recovery from the energy-saving state does not pass through the intermediate level corresponding to the second target output. After the receiving device and the power supply device establish a connection, the power supply device confirms the connection of the receiving device and establishes a default output according to a preset strategy after the connection confirmation is completed, so as to supply power to the receiving device through the main power supply path; when the receiving device enters the normal working state, the receiving device generates power supply control information corresponding to the normal working state, and the power supply device maintains the output at the first target output according to the power supply control information.

[0046] Specifically, standby mode does not necessarily lead to deep power-saving mode. If a device encounters recovery conditions during standby, it can directly request to resume normal output; only when deeper power-saving conditions are met will it request a lower output. Similarly, recovery from deep power-saving mode does not require sequentially passing through all intermediate power levels. Power supply equipment can directly or in stages restore the target output based on control strategies, system safety requirements, and output conversion capabilities, ensuring response speed and system state switching efficiency, avoiding unnecessary intermediate state transition losses, and adapting to power control needs in different scenarios, maximizing the reduction of overall system power consumption while ensuring the normal functioning of powered equipment.

[0047] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6This is a schematic diagram illustrating the scalability of the embodiments of this disclosure. The output levels of the method provided in this disclosure are scalable, and can employ two levels, multiple levels, N levels, continuous or near-continuous output; the source of control information is scalable, and can be formed by EC, MCU, SoC, FPGA, dedicated control unit or multiple control units working together; the expression of control information is scalable, and can employ voltage, current, impedance, pulse, frequency, digital encoding or other electrical characteristics; the control strategy is scalable, and in addition to normal operation, standby maintenance and deep energy saving, it can also be extended to performance priority, silent operation, temperature control, user-defined or enterprise-unified strategies; the application platform is scalable, and can be used in Mini PCs, laptops, NAS, industrial control equipment, AI Boxes, network equipment, expansion docks and other external DC power supply products; the power supply equipment is scalable, and can be used in AC adapters, centralized power supplies, DC modules or other power supply devices with adjustable output capabilities.

[0048] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is an exemplary hardware implementation block diagram provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. The power supply device is provided with a pull-up branch and a control signal sampling unit, and the power receiving device is provided with a pull-down network. The pull-down network includes a default pull-down branch and at least one controllable parallel pull-down branch. The pull-up branch and the pull-down network form a voltage divider structure through the control signal path. The power receiving device sends power supply control information to the power supply device based on the control signal path. Specifically, the power receiving device can change the equivalent pull-down impedance of the pull-down network by controlling the conduction state of the controllable parallel pull-down branch, so that the control signal nodes of the voltage divider structure form different control voltages corresponding to the power supply control information. The control signal sampling unit collects the control voltage of the control signal nodes as power supply control information and sends it to the power supply device based on the control signal path.

[0049] For example, the pull-up branch and pull-down network described above can be implemented using resistors.

[0050] Specifically, the receiving device changes the equivalent pull-down impedance by controlling the conduction state of the controllable pull-down branch, thereby creating different voltages at the control node. The supplying device identifies this voltage, determines the control state, and adjusts the output. This voltage divider structure is formed by the pull-up branch at the supplying device end and the pull-down network at the receiving device end; the voltage divider structure is not entirely located at the receiving device end.

[0051] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8This is an exemplary control signal formation diagram provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure. When the powered device is not connected, the control signal node is maintained at a preset unconnected level by the pull-up branch. When the powered device is connected, the default pull-down branch and the pull-up branch form a voltage divider. The power supply device identifies the connection of the powered device and determines the default output based on the voltage change of the control signal node. When the control unit of the powered device is not powered, not initialized, or in a power-off state, the powered device maintains the equivalent pull-down impedance corresponding to the preset control state through the default pull-down branch, so that the control signal node forms a control voltage corresponding to the default output. When the control unit of the powered device is working, the control unit controls at least one part or all of the controllable parallel pull-down branches to be turned on according to the current operating state of the powered device, so as to change the equivalent pull-down impedance and form a control voltage corresponding to the current power supply control intention.

[0052] When no powered device is connected, the control node is maintained at a high level or in a preset unconnected state by the pull-up branch on the power supply side. After the powered device is connected, the pull-up branch on the power supply side and the pull-down network on the powered device side form a voltage divider. The powered device retains a default pull-down branch to maintain a preset control state even when the control unit is not powered, not initialized, or powered off. When the EC, MCU, or other control unit is active, it can control one or more additional pull-down branches to conduct, changing the equivalent pull-down impedance. Different equivalent pull-down impedances correspond to different control signal voltages, thus expressing different power supply control intentions, enabling the active analog output device to operate without continuous power supply when the powered device is powered off.

[0053] The voltage at the voltage divider node can be calculated using the following formula:

[0054] This is the equivalent pull-down resistance at the power receiving end (the default value is the equivalent of the pull-down and parallel resistance). For pull-up resistors, This is the output voltage of the adapter.

[0055] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 9 , Figure 9This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary control signal identification window provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. The power supply device parses the power supply control information according to preset control rules to obtain the target output. Specifically, the power supply device parses the control voltage of the control signal node and compares the sampling result with multiple preset identification windows to determine the current control state. The target output is then determined based on the current control state. Each preset identification window corresponds to a different power supply control intention, and a tolerance range and an undefined region are set between adjacent preset identification windows. When the sampling result falls into the undefined region, the power supply device determines the current control state as an abnormal state, maintains the current output or reverts to the default output, and resamples and confirms the control voltage. The threshold and tolerance range of the preset identification window are configured based on at least one of the following: power supply voltage, resistance error, cable voltage drop, noise, and sampling accuracy. The number of current control states is expanded by increasing the number of controllable parallel pull-down branches, using multi-level encoding, continuously variable impedance, or digital encoding.

[0056] For example, power supply equipment can sample the control signal voltage using an ADC and compare the sampled result with a preset identification window to determine the current control state. A control signal of approximately 2.5V corresponds to a normal operation request, approximately 1.5V corresponds to a standby request, and approximately 0.5V corresponds to a deep energy-saving request.

[0057] It is understood that the above values ​​are for illustrative purposes only, and the actual threshold and tolerance window can be configured according to the supply voltage, resistance error, cable voltage drop, noise, sampling accuracy, and product requirements. In addition to ADC window recognition, power supply equipment can also use comparators, multi-threshold detection, impedance detection, frequency detection, digital decoding, or other methods to parse control information.

[0058] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary output adjustment process provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The control unit of the power supply equipment determines the target output based on the identification result and adjusts the operating state of the main power conversion unit through the output adjustment unit. Output adjustment can be achieved by changing the feedback reference, DAC output, PWM duty cycle, digital control register, reference current, or other control quantities. The power supply equipment can employ soft start, slope control, delay, confirmation, filtering, debouncing, or protection strategies according to safety requirements.

[0059] It is understandable that the output levels can be expanded. For example, the above description uses three voltage windows and three output levels, but in practice, the number of control states can be expanded by increasing the number of controllable branches, using multi-level coding, continuously variable impedance, active analog output, or digital coding. Where the power supply equipment's resolution and output adjustment range allow, two-level, multi-level, N-level, continuous, or near-continuous output can be achieved, without being limited to the three-level example.

[0060] In some embodiments, the power supply equipment establishes or adjusts the output to the target output. Specifically, the power supply equipment performs stability verification on the adjusted output. When the output is confirmed to be stable at the target output, the output adjustment is completed. If an output abnormality or control signal abnormality is detected during the verification process, the power supply equipment will revert the output to the output before adjustment or the default output, thereby avoiding abnormal output from causing abnormal operation of the powered equipment and improving the safety and reliability of the power supply control process.

[0061] The overall control process of the method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure is described in full below: When the power supply equipment powers on, its control unit and control signal pull-up branch enter the working state. When the receiving equipment is not connected, the control node remains at an unconnected level. After the receiving equipment is connected, the default pull-down branch and pull-up branch form a voltage divider, and the power supply equipment recognizes the connection and default control state. The receiving equipment control unit changes the additional pull-down branch according to the operating state, forming a new control signal voltage. The power supply equipment samples and identifies the control signal to determine the corresponding target output. The power supply equipment adjusts the output and confirms that the output is stable. When the equipment state changes again, the process of control signal formation, identification, and output adjustment is repeated.

[0062] The embodiments described in this disclosure are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this disclosure and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided by this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of technology and the emergence of new application scenarios, the technical solutions provided by this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0063] Those skilled in the art will understand that the technical solutions shown in the figures do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this disclosure, and may include more or fewer steps than shown, or combine certain steps, or different steps.

[0064] The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0065] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or some of the steps, apparatuses, or functional modules / units in the methods disclosed above can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, or suitable combinations thereof.

[0066] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in this disclosure and the foregoing drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a particular order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this disclosure described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, apparatus, product, or device that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0067] It should be understood that in this disclosure, "at least one item" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three cases: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0068] In the several embodiments provided in this disclosure, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of the units described above is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0069] The units described above as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0070] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this disclosure can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0071] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this disclosure, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes multiple instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods of the various embodiments of this disclosure. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing programs, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0072] The preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but this does not limit the scope of the claims of the present disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure shall be within the scope of the claims of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A power supply control method, characterized in that, Applied to a power supply control framework, the power supply control framework including a powered device, a control signal path, and a power supply device, wherein the control signal path multiplexes an existing signal path in a DC interface, the method includes: The power receiving device generates power supply control information based on device data, wherein the device data includes at least one of the power receiving device's own product attributes, operating status, and control strategy, and the power supply control information is used to indicate the power receiving device's current power supply control intention. The receiving device sends the power supply control information to the power supply device based on the control signal path, wherein the control information flow formed by the power supply control information is directed from the receiving device to the power supply device, and the direction of the control information flow is opposite to the energy flow direction of the power supply device transmitting electrical energy to the receiving device through the main power supply path; The power supply equipment parses the power supply control information according to preset control rules to obtain the target output, wherein the target output includes at least one of output voltage, output current, output power, or power supply status; The power supply equipment will establish or adjust the output to the target output and transmit electrical energy to the power receiving equipment through the main power supply path; When the power supply control intention changes, the powered device reconstructs the power supply control information and transmits it to the power supply device via the control signal path. The power supply device then re-parses and adjusts the target output.

2. The power supply control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The operating status includes normal operating status, standby mode, and power saving status; When the power supply control information indicates that the powered device is in the normal operating state, the power supply device determines the first target output; When the power supply control information indicates that the powered device is in the standby state, the power supply device determines a second target output, wherein the standby state is a stage in which the powered device is in an abnormal working state but still needs to maintain some system functions, storage state or wake-up capability, and the power consumption of the second target output is lower than the power consumption of the first target output. When the power supply control information indicates that the powered device meets the preset energy-saving conditions and is in the energy-saving state, the power supply device determines a third target output, the power consumption of the third target output being lower than the power consumption of the second target output.

3. The power supply control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the powered device is in the standby state, the powered device requests to enter the energy-saving state based on whether the preset energy-saving conditions are met; when the powered device generates the conditions for resuming operation, the powered device regenerates the power supply control information corresponding to the normal operating state, so that the power supply device restores the target output to the first target output, wherein the restoration from the energy-saving state does not pass through the intermediate level corresponding to the second target output; After the power receiving device establishes a connection with the power supply device, the power supply device confirms the connection of the power receiving device and establishes a default output according to a preset strategy after the connection confirmation is completed, so as to supply power to the power receiving device through the main power supply path; when the power receiving device enters the normal working state, the power receiving device generates power supply control information corresponding to the normal working state, and the power supply device maintains the output at the first target output according to the power supply control information.

4. The power supply control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The existing signal path is the signal path in the DC interface that was originally used for at least one auxiliary function among connection detection, adapter identification, output enable, or protection against hot-plugging. While retaining the original auxiliary functions of the existing signal path, the existing signal path is extended to become the control signal path that carries the power supply control information. The power supply control information includes at least one of static level, impedance status, pulse, frequency, duty cycle, analog quantity, and digital code, and the control signal path is a single-line path or a multi-line path.

5. The power supply control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply equipment is equipped with an up-pull branch and a control signal sampling unit. The power receiving equipment is equipped with a down-pull network, which includes a default down-pull branch and at least one controllable parallel down-pull branch. The up-pull branch and the down-pull network form a voltage divider structure via the control signal path. The power receiving equipment sends the power supply control information to the power supply equipment based on the control signal path, including: The power receiving device changes the equivalent pull-down impedance of the pull-down network by controlling the conduction state of the controllable parallel pull-down branch, so that the control signal node of the voltage divider structure forms different control voltages corresponding to the power supply control information. The control signal sampling unit collects the control voltage of the control signal node as the power supply control information and sends it to the power supply equipment based on the control signal path.

6. The power supply control method according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the powered device is not connected, the control signal node is held at a preset unconnected level by the pull-up branch; when the powered device is connected, the default pull-down branch and the pull-up branch form a voltage divider, and the power supply device identifies the connection of the powered device and determines the default output based on the voltage change of the control signal node; When the control unit of the powered device is not powered, not initialized, or in a power-off state, the powered device maintains the equivalent pull-down impedance corresponding to the preset control state through the default pull-down branch, so that the control signal node forms a control voltage corresponding to the default output. When the control unit of the powered device is activated, the control unit controls part or all of the at least one controllable parallel pull-down branch to be turned on according to the current operating state of the powered device, so as to change the equivalent pull-down impedance and form a control voltage corresponding to the current power supply control intention.

7. The power supply control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The power supply equipment parses the power supply control information according to preset control rules to obtain the target output, including: The power supply equipment analyzes the control voltage of the control signal node and compares the sampling results with multiple preset identification windows to determine the current control state. Based on the current control state, the target output is determined. Each preset identification window corresponds to a different power supply control intention, and a tolerance range and an undefined area are set between adjacent preset identification windows. When the sampling result falls into the undefined area, the power supply device determines the current control state as an abnormal state, maintains the current output or reverts to the default output, and resamples and confirms the control voltage. The threshold of the preset identification window and the tolerance range are configured based on at least one of the following: power supply voltage, resistance error, cable voltage drop, noise, and sampling accuracy. The number of current control states is expanded by increasing the number of controllable parallel pull-down branches, using multi-level coding, continuously variable impedance, or digital coding.

8. The power supply control method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The power supply equipment will establish or adjust the output to the target output, including: The power supply equipment verifies the stability of the adjusted output. When it confirms that the output is stable at the target output, the output adjustment is completed. If an output abnormality or control signal abnormality is detected during the verification process, the power supply equipment will revert the output to the output before adjustment or the default output.

9. The power supply control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply equipment parses the power supply control information according to preset control rules to obtain the target output, including: The power supply equipment parses the acquired power supply control information according to at least one preset control rule among preset mapping relationship, threshold rule, state machine or control algorithm, and determines the target output corresponding to the power supply control information; The target output corresponds to at least two discrete output levels, or to N adjustable output levels, continuously adjustable output, or approximately continuously adjustable output, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 3. The power supply equipment establishes or adjusts the output to the target output, including: the power supply equipment controls the main power conversion unit to establish, maintain or switch the output to the power supply state corresponding to the target output through at least one output adjustment method among feedback reference adjustment, pulse width modulation (PWM) control, digital-to-analog converter (DAC) control or digital power control.

10. A power supply control framework, characterized in that, Used to perform the power supply control method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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