Systems and methods for powering a real time clock (RTC) module

Abstract

Embodiments herein disclose methods and systems for providing power to a RTC module in an electronic device. Embodiments herein disclose systems and methods for powering an RTC module that overcomes space constraints associated with currently available additional RTC backup mechanisms. Embodiments herein disclose systems and methods for powering an RTC module in the electronic device, enabling the RTC module to remain operational despite the primary power source of the electronic device being turned off or experiencing a malfunction. Embodiments herein disclose systems and methods for powering an RTC module in the electronic device, enabling the device to maintain accurate timekeeping over extended periods of time, without relying on backup power solutions. Embodiments herein disclose systems and methods for powering an RTC module in the electronic device that is compatible, low-cost, easy to maintain, robust, and efficient.

Description

“Systems and methods for powering a real time clock (RTC) module”CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONThis application is based on and derives the benefit of Indian Provisional Application IN202441021081, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to Real Time Clocks (RTCs) and more particularly to providing power to RTCs.BACKGROUND

[0002] Electronic devices and systems often rely on Real-Time Clocks (RTCs) modules to accurately track time and date, supporting critical functions like data timestamping and task scheduling. To ensure that the RTC module continues to operate seamlessly even during power interruptions or outages, backup power solutions are commonly integrated into the devices. These backup power solutions are vital to prevent RTC modules from resetting or losing settings in unfavourable conditions.

[0003] At present, there are two primary methods employed for powering RTC modules using backup power solutions that use secondary power sources (typically coin cell batteries), or supercapacitors. These components provide the necessary power to keep RTC modules operational when the device is in power-off condition. However, incorporating these backup power solutions poses challenges, particularly in devices with limited physical space. Compact or space-constrained designs (for example, mobile devices, loT sensors, or portable and smart battery packs) must carefully manage the placement of these components to avoid compromising the device's form factor or functionality. Further, implementing backup power solutions for RTC modules invariably increases the overall manufacturing cost of electronic devices and systems. This cost encompasses not only the purchase of backup power solution components, but also the integration of supporting circuitry required to manage the backup power system. Cost considerations become particularly significant in projects with low budgets and the design of cost-effective consumer electronics.

[0004] While the backup power solutions for the RTC module are indispensable for maintaining accurate timekeeping, their reliability is paramount. Any malfunction or failure in the backup power system can lead to inaccuracies in the RTC module operation, potentially causing issues related to data synchronization, task scheduling, or overall system operation.Therefore, ensuring a continuous supply of power to the RTC module even without a backup power solution is of utmost importance in accurate tracking of time and date.

[0005] Hence, there is a need in the art for solutions which will overcome the above mentioned drawback(s), among others.OBJECTS

[0006] The principal object of embodiments herein is to disclose methods and systems for providing power to a Real Time Clock (RTC) module in an electronic device.

[0007] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose systems and methods for powering an RTC module that overcomes space constraints associated with currently available additional RTC backup mechanisms.

[0008] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose systems and methods for powering an RTC module in the electronic device, enabling the RTC module to remain operational despite the primary power source of the electronic device being turned off or experiencing a malfunction.

[0009] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose systems and methods for powering an RTC module in the electronic device, enabling the electronic device to maintain accurate timekeeping over extended periods of time, without relying on additional backup power solutions.

[0010] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose systems and methods for powering an RTC module in the electronic device that is compatible, low-cost, easy to maintain, robust, and efficient.

[0011] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating at least one embodiment and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0012] Embodiments herein are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. Theembodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the following illustratory drawings. Embodiments herein are illustrated by way of examples in the accompanying drawings, and in which:

[0013] FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of a system for powering a RTC module, according to embodiments as disclosed herein; and

[0014] FIG. 2 is a flowchart depicting the process of providing power to a RTC module in an electronic device, according to embodiments as disclosed herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0016] For the purposes of interpreting this specification, the definitions (as defined herein) will apply and whenever appropriate the terms used in singular will also include the plural and vice versa. It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purposes of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “comprising”, “having” and “including” are to be construed as open-ended terms unless otherwise noted.

[0017] The words / phrases "exemplary", “example”, “illustration”, “in an instance”, “and the like”, “and so on”, “etc.”, “etcetera”, “e.g.,” , “i.e.,” are merely used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein using the words / phrases "exemplary", “example”, “illustration”, “in an instance”, “and the like”, “and so on”, “etc.”, “etcetera”, “e.g.,” , “i.e.,” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0018] Embodiments herein may be described and illustrated in terms of blocks which carry out a described function or functions. These blocks, which may be referred to herein as managers, units, modules, hardware components or the like, are physically implemented by analog and / or digital circuits such as logic gates, integrated circuits, microprocessors,microcontrollers, memory circuits, passive electronic components, active electronic components, optical components, hardwired circuits and the like, and may optionally be driven by a firmware. The circuits may, for example, be embodied in one or more semiconductor chips, or on substrate supports such as printed circuit boards and the like. The circuits constituting a block may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or by a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry), or by a combination of dedicated hardware to perform some functions of the block and a processor to perform other functions of the block. Each block of the embodiments may be physically separated into two or more interacting and discrete blocks without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, the blocks of the embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0019] It should be noted that elements in the drawings are illustrated for the purposes of this description and ease of understanding and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts / sequence diagrams illustrate the method in terms of the steps required for understanding of aspects of the embodiments as disclosed herein. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the present embodiments so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Furthermore, in terms of the system, one or more components / modules which comprise the system may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the present embodiments so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

[0020] The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand various technical features and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any modifications, equivalents, and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawings and the corresponding description. Usage of words such as first, second, third etc., to describe components / elements / steps is for the purposes of this description and should not be construed as sequential ordering / placement / occurrence unless specified otherwise.

[0021] The embodiments herein achieve methods and systems for providing power to a RTC module in an electronic device. Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1 through 2, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.

[0022] Embodiments herein utilize a primary power source of an electronic device for powering a Real-time Clock (RTC) module in the electronic device, offering a practical and cost-effective alternative to currently available RTC backup mechanisms. Maintaining accurate timekeeping in electronic devices often involves providing additional backup power solutions, leading to increased space requirements and costs. In contrast, embodiments herein leverage an existing primary power source for sustained powering of the RTC module, overcoming the challenges posed by space constraints and cost considerations. Embodiments herein ensure that the RTC module remains operational even when the device is turned off or malfunctioned, offering benefits such as zero additional cost, space savings, and infinite backup time.

[0023] Embodiments herein incorporate an RTC module powered by the primary power source of an electronic device. The RTC module can draw ultra-low power, ensuring long-term power supply without significantly impacting the device's battery life. A control module can control the flow of power from the primary power source to the RTC module. The control module can efficiently manage power consumption, allowing the RTC module to remain active even when the device is in power-off condition.

[0024] The following terms and references have been referred to herein:100: Electronic device102: Battery management system (BMS)104: Power cell(s) of a Battery Pack106: Controlled Input Power supply circuit108: RTC module110: Ultra-low power supply circuit112: Power control module

[0025] FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of a system for powering a RTC module. The RTC module 108 can be powered by at least one power cell 104 of an electronic device 100 during ‘power-on’ and ‘power-off conditions. In an embodiment herein, the at least one powercell 104 can be a primary power source for the device 100. The RTC module 108 can draw power from the at least one power cell 104 of the device 100 through two distinct connections. When the device is in ‘power-on’ condition (i.e., the device 100 is in an active and operational state), the RTC module 108 can operate in the normal power mode through a controlled input power supply circuit 106 (i.e., a first connection path). When the device is in ‘power-off condition (wherein the device 100 is in an inactive and non-operational state), the RTC module 108 can operate in the normal power mode through the ultra-low power supply circuit 110 (i.e., a second connection path). Hence, the RTC module 108 is always powered by the at least one power cell 104 of the device 100.

[0026] The ultra-low power supply circuit 110 is a control mechanism that regulates power supply based on specific conditions. The ultra- low power supply circuit 110 can control the activation and deactivation of the power supply to certain subsystems within the BMS, ensuring optimal energy utilization. The ultra-low power supply circuit 110 can be triggered by an external event or a pre-defined system requirement, such as a wake-up signal from the BMS or a low-power state transition. The ultra-low power supply circuit 110 includes components such as, but not limited to, Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors (MOSFETs), relays, diodes, and control logic (for example, microcontroller or comparator circuits) to manage power flow efficiently.

[0027] In an embodiment herein, the ultra-low power supply circuit 110 may involve a low-power sensing mechanism to detect when the RTC module 108 needs power and switch it on accordingly.

[0028] The ultra-low power supply circuit 110 enhances power management, particularly in low-power modes or when transitioning between different states of operation.

[0029] The two-path power supply to the RTC module 108 according to embodiments as disclosed herein is encapsulated in table 1.Table 1

[0030] The power requirement communication is a mechanism, where different components within the RTC module 108 relay their power needs using digital signals, Controller Area Network / Local Interconnect Network (CAN / LIN) bus, or other protocols. This ensures dynamic power management by activating power supply modules only when required, reducing standby losses and improving efficiency. The system may use wake-up signals, polling mechanisms, or threshold-based activation to optimize energy usage.

[0031] In the ‘power-on’ condition of device 100, the RTC module 108 can be in constant communication with a power control module 112 of the device 100. Due to the ongoing communication between the RTC module 108 and the power control module 112, relatively higher power consumption by the RTC module is inevitable. Hence the controlled input power supply circuit 106 interfaces with the RTC module 108 and the BMS 102, ensuring a continuous and reliable power supply (i.e., the first connection).

[0032] However, when device 100 is in ‘power-off condition, the power consumption by the RTC module 108 is ultra-low. The BMS can seamlessly transition the RTC module 108 to an alternate connection (i.e., the second connection), wherein the ultra-low power supply circuit 110 can draw power directly from the at least one power cell 104. In an embodiment herein, the RTC module 108 can be an ultra-low power RTC module 108, which can be engineered to minimize energy requirements without compromising on accuracy or reliability. Unlike the controlled input power supply circuit 106 linked through the MCU 112, the ultralow power supply circuit 110 can operate autonomously via a direct connection, ensuring the uninterrupted functionality of the RTC module 108 regardless of the device's power state. The RTC module 108 can derive power from the ultra-low-power supply circuit 110, when the device 100 is in the ‘power-off condition, minimizing energy consumption and extending the backup power duration.

[0033] The ultra-low power supply circuit 110 operates autonomously by independently managing its power delivery without requiring continuous external control. The ultra-low power supply circuit 110 achieves this by utilizing low-power components andenergy-efficient design, ensuring it can function with minimal energy consumption. The ultralow power supply circuit 110 is activated only when necessary, reducing overall power drain.

[0034] Regarding the direct connection, this refers to how the ultra-low power supply circuit is linked to other systems, such as the BMS or specific sensors, without requiring intermediate switching elements. This direct connection allows seamless and immediate power delivery to critical components while maintaining efficient energy management.

[0035] Embodiments herein disclose a compact and space-efficient design that can seamlessly integrate into electronic devices without requiring additional physical space for a dedicated backup power solution for RTC module 108. Embodiments herein emphasize costeffectiveness by utilizing the existing primary power source of device 100 for powering the RTC module 108, eliminating the need for additional backup power components, and reducing overall system costs.

[0036] Embodiments herein provide a backup power solution to the RTC module in electronic devices by integrating the RTC module with the primary power source provided by the at least one power cell 104 of the device 100. The power management circuit can ensure efficient use of power, enabling the RTC module to remain operational even when the device is in ‘power-off condition. The ultra-low power RTC module configuration enhances energy efficiency. The space-efficient design can allow seamless integration into devices without requiring extra space for dedicated backup power solutions for RTC modules. Embodiments herein achieve these improvements without incurring additional costs, providing a practical and cost-effective solution for accurate timekeeping in electronic devices.

[0037] The primary power source within the device such as the battery pack never depletes to the level of zero as some amount of power is always present which is sufficient to energize the RTC module even in power-off condition for several years.

[0038] FIG. 2 is a flowchart depicting the process of providing power to a RTC module in an electronic device. Based on the current condition of the device 100 (step 201), if the device 100 is in the ‘power-on’ condition, in step 202, the controlled input power supply circuit 106 interfaces with the RTC module 108 and the BMS 102, ensuring a continuous and reliable power supply from at least one power cell 104 (i.e., the first connection). The first connection meets the relatively higher power consumption requirements of the RTC module. If the device 100 is in the ‘power-off condition, in step 203, the ultra-low power supply circuit 110 draws power directly from the at least one power cell 104 via the second connection, therebyminimizing energy consumption and extending the backup power duration. The ultra-low power supply circuit 110 operates autonomously via a direct connection, ensuring the uninterrupted functionality of the RTC module 108 regardless of the device's power state. The various actions in method 200 may be performed in the order presented, in a different order or simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, some actions listed in FIG. 2 may be omitted.

[0039] The present disclosure described herein above has several technical advantages including, but not limited to, the realization of a system and method of powering a real-time clock (RTC) module. Embodiments herein utilize the primary power source of the device for powering RTC module. Embodiments herein do not require additional or secondary power sources such as backup power solutions or supercapacitors. Embodiments herein can be space saving and can be integrated with limited physical space in compact or space-constrained electronic devices. Embodiments herein can be powered by a primary power source even when the device is in power-off condition or inactive. Embodiments herein can reduce the complexity of integration into the device's design. Embodiments herein enable reduced investment and maintenance costs.

[0040] The embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented through at least one software program running on at least one hardware device and performing network management functions to control the network elements. The elements include blocks which can be at least one of a hardware device, or a combination of hardware device and software module.

[0041] The embodiments disclosed herein describe methods and systems for providing power to a RTC module in an electronic device. Therefore, it is understood that the scope of the protection is extended to such a program and in addition to a computer readable means having a message therein, such computer readable storage means contain program code means for implementation of one or more steps of the method, when the program runs on a server or mobile device or any suitable programmable device. The method is implemented in at least one embodiment through or together with a software program written in e.g., Very high speed integrated circuit Hardware Description Language (VHDL) another programming language, or implemented by one or more VHDL or several software modules being executed on at least one hardware device. The hardware device can be any kind of portable device that can be programmed. The device may also include means which could be e.g., hardware means like e.g., an ASIC, or a combination of hardware and software means, e.g., an ASIC and an FPGA, or at least one microprocessor and at least one memory with software modules located therein.The method embodiments described herein could be implemented partly in hardware and partly in software. Alternatively, the invention may be implemented on different hardware devices, e.g., using a plurality of CPUs.

[0042] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments and examples disclosed herein can be practised with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described herein.

Claims

STATEMENT OF CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A method for providing power to a Real-time Clock (RTC) module (108) in an electronic device (100), the method comprising: providing (202), by a controlled input power supply circuit (106), a continuous power supply to the RTC module (108) from at least one power cell (104), if the device is in ‘power-on’ condition; and providing (203), by an ultra-low power supply circuit (110), a continuous power supply to the RTC module (108) from the at least one power cell (104), if the device is in ‘power-off condition.

2. The method, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controlled input power supply circuit (106) provides the continuous power supply to the RTC module (108) from at least one power cell (104) via a first connection.

3. The method, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ultra-low power supply circuit (110) provides the continuous power supply to the RTC module (108) from the at least one power cell (104) via a second connection.

4. The method, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ultra-low power supply circuit (110) is triggered by an external event or a pre-defined system requirement5. The method, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ultra-low power supply circuit (110) comprises a low-power sensing mechanism.

6. A system for providing power to a Real-time Clock (RTC) module (108) in an electronic device (100), the system comprising: a controlled input power supply circuit (106), wherein the controlled input power supply circuit (106) is configured to provide a continuous power supply to the RTC module (108) from at least one power cell (104), if the device is in ‘power-on’ condition; and an ultra-low power supply circuit (110), wherein the ultra- low power supply circuit (110) is configured to provide a continuous power supply to the RTC module (108) from the at least one power cell (104), if the device is in ‘power-off condition.

7. The system, as claimed in claim 6, wherein the controlled input power supply circuit (106) is configured to provide the continuous power supply to the RTC module (108) from at least one power cell (104) via a first connection.

8. The system, as claimed in claim 6, wherein the ultra-low power supply circuit (110) is configured to provide the continuous power supply to the RTC module (108) from the at least one power cell (104) via a second connection.

9. The system, as claimed in claim 8, wherein the ultra-low power supply circuit (110) comprises at least one Metal- Oxide- Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor (MOSFET), at least one relay, at least one diode, and control logic.

10. The system, as claimed in claim 6, wherein the ultra-low power supply circuit (110) is triggered by an external event or a pre-defined system requirement11. The system, as claimed in claim 6, wherein the ultra-low power supply circuit (110) comprises a low-power sensing mechanism.

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