A USB charge management device arranged to control charging power levels

Abstract

What is disclosed is a USB charge management device arranged to control charging power levels for charging USB devices wherein the USB charge management device comprises: - a plurality of ports, wherein each of the plurality of ports is arranged to connect to one of a plurality of USB devices; and - a multiprotocol adaptive charging, MPAC, control circuit, arranged to: - determine a connection configuration that corresponds to a first charging profile, wherein the connection configuration connects pins of the plurality of ports according to the first charging profile, which is a current charging profile between the plurality of connected USB device; - change the connection configuration to select a further charging profile, wherein the further charging profile has a charging power level different from the power level of the first charging profile.

Description

[0001] TITLE

[0002] A USB charge management device arranged to control charging power levels

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present invention generally relates to the field of USB battery charge management systems and protocols, wherein a USB charge management device is provided and arranged to control charging power levels.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] In recent years, the proliferation of portable electronic devices has led to an increased focus on battery technology and charging methods. Current state-of- the-art charging systems typically prioritize fast charging speeds to minimize user inconvenience. These systems often employ high-current charging protocols, such as USB 3.0 Power Delivery (PD), which can deliver up to 100W of power. While faster charging to full state-of-charge satisfies the immediate need for rapid battery replenishment, it often overlooks the benefits that can be achieved through smarter charging management, such as improved long-term health and longevity of the battery itself.

[0007] Standard charging practices frequently involve charging batteries to their full capacity (100% state of charge) and maintaining this level for extended periods, particularly during overnight charging. Additionally, many devices are charged at maximum speed whenever connected to a power source, regardless of the user's immediate needs or the potential impact on battery health. These practices, while convenient, can lead to accelerated battery degradation over time.

[0008] The current charging paradigm presents several disadvantages. Firstly, consistently charging batteries to a high capacity and maintaining this state can lead to increased stress on the battery cells, resulting in faster capacity loss and reduced overall lifespan. Secondly, high-speed charging, while convenient in the short term, increases battery wear. Additionally, faster charging results in elevated temperatures, further contributing to long-term degradation. Thirdly, the lack of intelligent charging management means that devices are often charged suboptimally, missing opportunities to balance user convenience with battery preservation.

[0009] It is therefore a goal of the present invention to provide an intelligent charging solution that can dynamically manage the charging process to extend battery lifespan, while maintaining user convenience and device readiness, thereby overcoming the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art at least in part. This invention aims to address the limitations of current charging systems for a wide range of devices by introducing adaptive charging strategies that consider factors such as charging speed, maximum charge level, and timing of charging and charge completion all without requiring modifications to existing devices or chargers.

[0010] SUMMARY

[0011] One aspect of the present invention relates to a USB charge management device arranged to control charging power levels for charging a wide range of USB devices. A USB charge management device may be understood as an electronic device that manages the power transfer between USB-compatible devices, typically facilitating the charging of one device from another or from a power source.

[0012] The USB charge management device comprises a plurality of ports, wherein each of the plurality of ports is arranged to connect to one of a plurality of USB devices. A port in this context refers to a physical interface that allows for the connection of USB devices. A connected USB device may be a USB-C device or any other USB device, or any form of charging port, which will from now on be referred to as a USB device. USB-C is a specific type of USB connector that is reversible and capable of supporting various protocols and power delivery standards. This arrangement allows for versatile connectivity, enabling the charge management device to interface with multiple USB devices simultaneously. However, the charge management device described is also backwards compatible with older USB standards, within the limitations of the older USB standards.

[0013] Furthermore, the USB charge management device comprises a multiprotocol adaptive charging, MPAC, control circuit, which is arranged to: determine a connection configuration that corresponds to a first charging profile, wherein the connection configuration connects pins of the plurality of ports according to the first charging profile, which is a current charging profile between the plurality of connected USB device; and the MPAC is further arranged to change the connection configuration to select a further charging profile, wherein the further charging profile has a charging power level different from the power level of the first charging profile.

[0014] Herein ‘determine’ may be understood as identification of the connection configuration of the connected devices and I or the MPAC control circuit to be arranged to set the connection configuration, thereby actively controlling the connection configuration.

[0015] The charging profile may have a charging power level below a power level of the first charging profile. This is as the charge management device may leverage the USB charging standards in order to switch to a lower standard power level. This may for example be switching from USB-C PD to USB 2.0 power delivery.

[0016] In an example of the disclosure the MPAC control circuit is further arranged to: detect a plurality of connected USB devices; determine pins of the plurality of connected USB devices, to determine a connection configuration of the plurality of connected USB devices; wherein the connection configuration corresponds to a first charging profile, which is a current charging profile between the plurality of connected USB device;

[0017] Herein the determining of the pins of the plurality of ports may relate to how many pins are present and I or which of the pins have a voltage applied onto them or any other suitable method of determining the pins. For example, while USB type C may comprise CC lines, USB 2.0 may not comprise these lines. Therefore, the detection of the CC lines may indicate capabilities of USB 3.0 or higher charging profiles.

[0018] The inventors have found that it may be beneficial to provide a charge management device comprising an MPAC control circuit, which allows the control of the power level and time at which a charger device fitted with a USB connector charges a USB Sink device which is also fitted with a USB connector. The charge management device allows having a universal and retro-fit solution to add smart charge management to a wide range of devices that are charged through USB ports. This allows many different types of USB-charged connected devices to benefit from the further benefits below. The charge management device may also measure ambient temperature, which allows it to further optimise charging, such as charging slower at high ambient temperatures to keep the battery temperature in a more optimal range.

[0019] In an example, the further charging profile has a charging power level below the power level of the first charging profile.

[0020] In this particular example, the USB charge management device provides for a significant improvement in battery longevity by intelligently managing the charging power level. Specifically, the MPAC control circuit is arranged to first determine a current high-current charging profile, typically the maximum charging power capability, between the connected USB devices and is further arranged to change the connection configuration to select a further charging profile, wherein the further charging profile has a charging power level below the power level of the first charging profile. This allows the device to actively force a fallback from a fast-charging protocol (such as USB-C PD) to a slower, lower-power protocol (such as standard USB 2.0 power delivery).

[0021] This deliberate down-shifting of the charging speed directly addresses the problem of accelerated battery degradation commonly caused by consistently fast charging. By operating at a lower power level, the device reduces thermal stress and electrochemical strain on the battery cells of the sink device. The technical effect is a cooler, less aggressive charging cycle, thereby preserving the battery's long-term health and extending its overall operational lifespan. This is particularly beneficial for situations like overnight charging, where speed is not a priority, but battery preservation is highly desirable.

[0022] This approach is distinct from and counter-intuitive to the prevailing solutions in the field. Many known solutions focus on optimizing charging modes to achieve the maximum possible charging speed that a device can handle, prioritizing user convenience by minimizing charging time. Other known methods address battery health but also thereto related battery damage due to overheating, by simply terminating the physical charging process e.g. by disconnecting the power source when the battery reaches a full state-of-charge. These solutions however are managing the duration but not the rate of charging.

[0023] The surprising and inventive aspect of the present disclosure lies in the deliberate act of downgrading from a high-current profile to a lower-power profile for the explicit purpose of improving battery health. This represents a teaching away from the prior art's focus on speed and optimization, or even duration of charging. Instead of enabling the fastest possible charge, the invention provides a more granular control over the charging rate itself, offering a novel solution that balances convenience with longevity. This provides the user with the flexibility to prioritize battery preservation over charging speed without requiring any modification to the source or sink devices themselves, enabled through a retro-fit solution which can easily be used between any type of connected USB devices.

[0024] In an example, the USB charge management device provides for enhanced user control over the charging session itself. The MPAC control circuit may be arranged to interrupt, pause, or completely stop the flow of power by controlling a switch on the VBUS line. This control can be actuated based on an external trigger, for example, from a user interacting with a connected software application via a wireless method such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

[0025] This feature provides a significant advantage over conventional charging systems, which typically charge continuously until unplugged or until the device's internal battery management stops the process. By providing an external, retro-fittable layer of session control, the user can dynamically manage charging based on external factors, such as fluctuating energy prices, the availability of renewable energy, or simply their daily schedule. This moves the device's functionality beyond simple power level negotiation into active, real-time charge session management.

[0026] To further enhance battery longevity, in another example of the present disclosure there is provided for control over the maximum state of charging. The MPAC control circuit can be configured to end the charging process before the battery of the connected sink device reaches its full 100% capacity, for instance, by stopping the charge at a preset level such as 80% or 90%.

[0027] It is known that maintaining a lithium-ion battery at a 100% state of charge for extended periods (e.g., overnight) is a significant contributor to capacity loss and degradation. While some devices are beginning to incorporate this logic internally, the present invention provides this benefit as a universal, external solution applicable to any compatible USB device. This allows users to mitigate a primary cause of battery wear without relying on the sink device's native capabilities, providing a more holistic approach to battery health that manages both the charging rate and the final charge level.

[0028] In a particularly example for controlling USB devices for example capable of implementing USB-C Power Delivery (PD) protocols, the MPAC control circuit is arranged to perform its function by simulating an electronic marker (e- marker). An e-marker is a component within a USB-C cable that communicates the cable's capabilities (e.g., maximum current) to the source and sink. The MPAC control circuit can intelligently simulate an e-marker that advertises capabilities corresponding to the desired, often lower, power profile.

[0029] This method is an elegant and protocol-compliant way to manipulate for example the USB-PD negotiation and more elegant and preferred over simply disconnecting communication lines. Through the simulation, the power source is "tricked" into believing it is connected to a less capable cable, it willingly offers a lower power profile, ensuring a stable and safe negotiation. This technical implementation demonstrates a compliant integration with the USB-C standard and provides a reliable mechanism for achieving the desired power level control.

[0030] To provide maximum flexibility, in an example of the disclosure the device allows for the charging profile to be selected based on direct user input. This may be accomplished via a physical selector on the device, such as a button or knob, or through a user interface in a connected software application. This allows the user to manually choose a desired charging mode, such as "Max Speed," "Balanced," or "Battery Care" (slow).

[0031] This is a distinct improvement over purely automatic systems that make a decision for the user, or simple two-mode switches that enable the user to force a high power or low power charging mode. It enables the user to make a real-time decision, balancing their immediate need for a quick charge against the long-term benefit of battery preservation. This makes the device a versatile tool that adapts not only to the connected hardware but also to the user's specific intent at any given moment.

[0032] The "multiprotocol" nature of the MPAC control circuit ensures broad compatibility with a wide range of charging standards. The device is specifically arranged to manage negotiations for modern standards like USB-C Power Delivery (USB-C PD), which is capable of very high power levels. Furthermore, the device is also capable of managing various proprietary charging protocols, such as QC3, which use unique methods of negotiation, often over the D+ / D- data lines. This requires the MPAC control circuit to be highly adaptable, recognizing and correctly manipulating different signaling schemes to achieve the desired outcome across a vast ecosystem of devices.

[0033] To ensure seamless operation within the LISB-C ecosystem, the device may incorporate a switching unit to intelligently manage the Configuration Channel (CC) lines. Due to the reversible nature of the LISB-C connector, the active communication line can be on one of two different physical pins (CC1 or CC2). The MPAC control circuit, in conjunction with its signal detection unit, determines the correct orientation and controls the switching unit to establish a proper connection between the active CC lines of the source and sink devices. This robust implementation detail is crucial for the device to function transparently and reliably, regardless of cable orientation.

[0034] Enhancing its versatility, the MPAC control circuit is preferably arranged to be bi-directional, supporting two-way charging. It is capable of automatically determining which of the two connected USB devices is acting as the power source and which is the sink. This is achieved by detecting signal levels on the CC lines and I or connecting the characteristic pull-up and / or pull-down resistors on the CC lines. This eliminates the need for dedicated "input" and "output" ports, greatly improving user-friendliness. The user can connect the source and sink to either port, and the device will adapt its internal logic accordingly.

[0035] Addressing modern security concerns, in an example of the present disclosure the device may be configured to function as a "data blocker" to provide protection against malicious attacks from compromised charging ports (a practice known as "juice jacking"). The MPAC control circuit can be configured to physically disable the data connection by disconnecting or short-circuiting the D+ / D- data lines. This creates a "power-only" link, forming a hardware-level "air gap" that makes it impossible for data to be transferred. This feature adds a critical layer of security, ensuring that a user's device cannot be hacked or infected with malware while charging at a public USB port.

[0036] In an example, the device employs an adaptive charging strategy by basing its decisions on the actual health of the sink device's battery. The M PAC control circuit is arranged to collect battery health data, such as cycle count or current maximum capacity, from the connected sink device. It then uses this real-time data to select the most appropriate charging profile. For example, it may permit faster charging for a new battery but automatically enforce a very gentle, low-power charge for an older, degraded battery to maximize its remaining operational life. This moves beyond a one-size-fits-all approach to a personalized solution tailored to the specific condition of the device.

[0037] In an example, the MPAC control circuit comprises a plurality of controllable pull-up and / or pull-down resistors connectable to pins of the plurality of ports, and wherein the control unit is arranged to control said resistors to mimic a legacy USB charging port, such as a USB 2.0 Dedicated Charging Port (DCP), thereby causing a connected USB device to select a charging profile corresponding to said legacy USB charging port.

[0038] In this example, the USB charge management device utilizes a specific mechanism to force a modern USB-C device to adopt a lower-power, legacy charging profile. The MPAC control circuit includes a plurality of controllable pull-up and / or pulldown resistors. The control unit is arranged to selectively connect these resistors to the communication pins (e.g., the CC lines) of the ports to mimic a legacy USB charging port. Specifically, by presenting a precise set of resistances, the device can "impersonate" a standard port type, such as a USB 2.0 Dedicated Charging Port (DCP). A modern USB-C Power Delivery (PD) compliant sink device, upon detecting these specific resistances, is "fooled" into believing it is connected to a simple, high- current legacy charger rather than a PD-capable source. According to its internal compliance logic, the sink device will then forgo a high-power USB-PD negotiation and instead draw power according to the rules of the mimicked legacy port, effectively selecting a lower-power charging profile.

[0039] This technique is a surprising solution to the problem of reliably controlling charging rates. It is more sophisticated than simply interrupting a negotiation; it is an active, protocol-aware manipulation that uses the sink device's own logic against its default tendency to charge at maximum speed. This provides a stable and predictable method for implementing the device's battery-preserving slow- charging mode. In an example, the switching unit comprises a crossover switch, and wherein the control unit is further arranged to, based on the detected signal indicating the orientation of connected LISB-C devices, control the crossover switch to connect the active Configuration Channel, CC, line of a source device to the active CC line of a sink device, thereby ensuring a proper communication path regardless of connector orientation.

[0040] A key challenge in the LISB-C ecosystem is the reversible nature of the connector. A LISB-C cable has two potential Configuration Channel (CC) lines, but only one is used for power negotiation. Because the plug can be inserted in two orientations, the active CC line from a source device may not align with the active CC line of a sink device, which would prevent a successful power negotiation.

[0041] To address this, the device according to the present disclosure, in an example, incorporates an intelligent connection management system. The MPAC control circuit's signal detection unit first determines which CC line is active on each of the connected ports, thereby identifying the cable orientation. Based on this detected signal, the control unit commands a switching unit, which comprises a crossover switch, to establish a correct end-to-end connection.

[0042] Thereby it is ensured that the active CC line from the source device is always routed to the active CC line of the sink device, regardless of how the user has plugged in the cables. This feature allows the charge management device to function transparently and reliably, providing a seamless "plug-and-play" experience. This robust, automated orientation handling is a crucial technical feature that enhances the device's versatility and user-friendliness within the modern LISB-C environment.

[0043] In an example of the disclosure, the MPAC control circuit is arranged to determine which of the connected plurality of USB devices is a USB source and which is a USB sink.

[0044] Each of the connected USB devices may be either a source or a sink, and the charge management device is capable of identifying, and when appropriate, controlling, which side will act as the source or sink. The ability to detect and identify USB sources and sinks or source and I or sink capabilities, allows the device to have the source and sink connected to any of its ports, eliminating the need for dedicated source or sink ports. This flexibility enables the device to automatically determine the appropriate operation mode for each port based on the connected devices, enhancing its versatility and user-friendliness.

[0045] In an example of the disclosure, the MPAC control circuit comprises:

[0046] - a signal detection unit arranged to detect a plurality of signals from the connected USB devices and arranged to transmit the plurality of signals to a control unit;

[0047] - a switching unit, connected to the pins of the plurality of ports, comprising switches arranged to switch the charging profile of the connected plurality of USB devices; and

[0048] - the control unit in connection with the signal detection unit and the switching unit, and arranged to, based on the detected signal of the plurality of signals received from the signal detection unit, control the switching unit to select the charging profile.

[0049] Based on the signals detected by the signal detection unit, the control unit will prompt the switching unit to switch between charging profiles. The switching unit itself may not “choose” or control the charging profile itself, but rather uses connections as a signal to connected USB devices to switch to a different, legacy, charging protocol. This allows the USB devices to be safely charged, within their capabilities. This may result in a lower charging speed, which may be beneficial in extending the lifespan of the batteries.

[0050] The switching unit as mentioned may comprise a plurality of switches. These switches may comprise a crossover switch. The switching unit may also be embodied by a plurality of other switches. In the present disclosure the term ‘crossover’ switch may be used because it clarifies the use case. However, the skilled person will appreciate that this is not to be interpreted in a limiting manner and that other implementations of the switching unit may also be applicable, e.g. a plurality of switches can be used instead to mimic the functionality of a ‘crossover’ switch.

[0051] It should be noted that connected USB devices should at least use a charging protocol that is higher than a low current (500mA) charging protocol for the MPAC control circuit to be able to potentially further lower the current

[0052] In an example of the disclosure, the pins of the plurality of ports are connected CC lines, D+ / D- lines, SBU lines, VBUS, ground and / or data lines. A LISB-C connection between two devices can consist of high-speed communication lines, low speed communication lines named D+ / D-, low speed communication lines named SBLI1 and SBLI2, power level negotiation lines named CC1 and CC2 and power supply lines named VBLIS and ground. A protocol which negotiates the charging power level can use various combinations of D+ / D- lines and I or high speed data lines or SBU lines, and I or CC1 and CC2 lines. Examples of such protocols are USB 2.0, USB-PD, QC3 and many others. Only 1 CC line (CC1 or CC2) is used by the charger and sink device to negotiate the power level. The other may be used to power an e-marker, or is not in use.

[0053] The plurality of switches of the switching unit may route the CC lines such that a proper connection is made by the charge management device.

[0054] In an example of the disclosure, the switching unit sets the charging profile of the connected USB devices by controlling the connection of the CC and I or D+ / D- lines and I or data lines between the connected USB devices. The device may also start, pause or stop charging by controlling the Vbus connection. The starting, stopping and pausing of the charging is beneficial as it allows control over the overall charging process. Further, it allows the resumption of negotiation between connected devices.

[0055] The charge management device, specifically the switching unit, can manipulate the D+ / D- lines between charger and sink in a way that it can control charging speeds for USB2.0 (normal and slow charging) and proprietary protocols, for example but not limited to QC3, which use the D+ / D- lines for negotiating the charging power level. A first switch is used to connect or disconnect the D+ / D- lines between charger device and sink device. A further switch together with closing the first switch is used to short the D+ / D- lines at both sides of the Charge management device. By opening the first switch and opening the further switch no negotiation is possible for charging power level negotiation protocols of connected devices which use the D+ / D- lines. By opening the first switch and opening further switch the sink device will not recognise the charge management device as a USB charging port capable of delivering more than 500mA. For example, some devices may then charge at 500mA, and others may try to draw more current as long as the voltage does not drop below a certain threshold, and others may try to charge at 1A if the voltage does not drop, or some may not charge at all by not recognizing it as a charging port. By closing the first switch and opening the further switch the sink device will be able to negotiate charging power levels using protocols which use the D+ / D- lines. By closing the first switch and closing the further switch (and thus shorting the D+ / D- lines towards both sink and source) a USB 2.0 compliant sink device will be able to detect the charge management device as a USB 2.0 charging port capable of delivering 5V at the maximum current the charging device can deliver.

[0056] The charge management device can manipulate the CC lines between charger and sink in a way that it can control charging power levels for USB3.0 I USB- PD based charging protocols. The switching unit furthermore allows connections between the CC lines. The switching unit can also be set to make no connection at all;

[0057] In an example of the disclosure, the MPAC control circuit comprises a plurality of pull-up and I or pull-down resistors, wherein the plurality of pull-up and I or pull-down resistors are connected to the pins of the plurality of ports to set the charging profile of the connected USB devices.

[0058] Pull-up and / or pull-down resistors in USB-C devices are used to indicate the power capabilities of the source and to help determine whether a device will act as a source or a sink, and may be used to mimic a USB 2.0 capable charging port. This means that the connected USB devices are fooled into thinking a less powerful charging protocol is needed, because connected devices may not handle USB-PD, which is a more advanced charging protocol. By doing this, the pull-up resistors and I or pull-down resistors allow for the down-shifting (and the up-shifting thereafter) of the charging speeds. This allows control of the charging speed of the connected USB device, for example to optimise the charging speed for a current environmental condition, such as temperature. the signal detection unit is arranged to:

[0059] - detect a voltage on and I or current through the VBUS lines

[0060] - detect a voltage and I or signal on the CC lines; and I or

[0061] - detect a voltage and I or signal on the D+ / D- lines; and I or

[0062] - detect a voltage and I or signal on the other data lines.

[0063] The signal detection unit may determine the voltage levels on the CC lines from connected USB devices. The control unit uses the values obtained from the signal detection unit to determine the setting for the switching unit. When opening the switching unit (by disconnecting the CC lines), a USB-PD capable Sink device is prohibited from using the CC lines to negotiate a charging power level. The result is that the LISB-PD capable Sink device falls back to one of the standard LISB2.0 charging power levels. When the crossover switch is activated, or connects the CC lines in the correct way, such that the active CC line of the charging device is connected to an active CC line of the sink device, the Sink device can negotiate a charging power level using the LISB-PD protocol or any other proprietary protocol using the CC lines for communication. This therefore allows the crossover switch to switch between legacy USB charging protocols and USB-PD charging or other highspeed charging protocols. This may be tailored towards a user to enhance the charging benefits, which are mentioned before. Therefore, the inclusion of an MPAC control system allows for the detection of a voltage or signal on the pins, for example the CC lines, and can switch the lines such that a switching between various legacy USB charging protocols, and to the fast-charging protocol that can be used by the device and charger combination, is enabled.

[0064] The charge management device has two different USB connections on each side, and therefore the CC lines (which are interchangeable), may not have a proper connection with each other. The charge management device solves this by figuring out which CC lines are used for communication, and correctly connecting these active two CC lines with each other, allowing for any USB-connected device to be connected in any orientation.

[0065] In an example of the disclosure, the MPAC control circuit is arranged to enable charging profiles comprising any of:

[0066] - a first charging profile to charge at a first power level;

[0067] - a second charging profile to charge at a second power level, different from the first power level;

[0068] - preferably a third charging profile to charge at a third power level, different from both the first and second power levels.

[0069] - preferably further charging profiles to charge at further power levels, different from the first, second and third power levels.

[0070] As mentioned, by switching the lines the MPAC control circuit is able to switch between charging protocols, these may be a first charging profile, which may comprise USB 1.0; or a second charging profile, which may comprise USB 2.0; or a third charging profile, which may comprise USB 3.0 PD, or allow the device + charger to negotiate LISB-PD charging, or another fast-charging protocol, such as QC3 or any other fast-charging protocol. The charge management device can switch back and forth between these algorithms. A proprietary charging profile corresponding to, for example, Oppo, may not be used in charging a, for example, Samsung USB device. Depending on the connected USB devices it may choose any of legacy USB protocols, which are not limited to those mentioned here.

[0071] In an example of the disclosure, the further charging profile has a charging profile corresponding to a USB charging standard.

[0072] In an example of the disclosure, the further charging profile has a charging power corresponding to any one of the following USB standards:

[0073] - USB 2.0;

[0074] - USB 3.0 / USB3.1 ;

[0075] - USB Battery Charging (BC) 1.2;

[0076] - USB-C Current Mode (non-PD);

[0077] - USB-C PD.

[0078] In an example of the disclosure the control unit is arranged to provide a connection through Wifi or through any applicable wireless connection method, such that an app may be used to control the switching of the charging profiles.

[0079] In an example of the disclosure, the switching of the charging profiles is based on user input, or based on an algorithm implemented in the control unit of the MPAC control circuit of the charge management device, or through an loT connection with an app or through a wireless communication method.

[0080] It may be provided that there is an option for user input which may override the control unit to switch between the charging profiles.

[0081] The device may furthermore allow for the optimization of the charging speed and timing which may improve the battery lifespan. The device may further adjust the charging speed (or start / pause / stop the charging), based on the energy mix of the grid or energy price, when connected through Wifi or Bluetooth with an App to manage this process: increasing charging speed when a higher proportion of green energy is available or when electricity prices are lower and decreasing or pausing charging when the grid relies more on fossil fuels or when prices are higher. The pausing of the charging is controlled by the switching of the Vbus lines In an example of the disclosure, the control unit is connected to a selector, wherein the selector is arranged to relay the user input for the switching of the charging profiles.

[0082] The selector may be a knob or a button or a small switch or the use of an App in combination with a Bluetooth or Wifi connection to the control unit or any other suitable alternative. The control unit may be a microcontroller or any other suitable controller. This user input may be installed to override the control unit of the MPAC control circuit, wherein the user signals to the control unit to switch between charging profiles, or choose the slowest charging profile or choose the fastest charging profile or any other user input.

[0083] In an example of the disclosure, the D+ / D- lines are any of:

[0084] - connected from a first of the plurality of connected USB devices to D+ / D- lines of a further of the plurality of connected USB devices;

[0085] - disconnected from a first of the plurality of connected USB devices to D+ / D- lines of a further of the plurality of connected USB devices;

[0086] - short-circuited between the D+ / D-of at least one of the plurality of connected USB devices; wherein the connection, disconnection and I or short-circuiting is performed by the switching unit.

[0087] In an example of the disclosure, the CC lines are any of:

[0088] - connected from a first of the plurality of connected USB devices to CC lines of a further of the plurality of connected USB devices;

[0089] - disconnected from a first of the plurality of connected USB devices to CC lines of a further of the plurality of connected USB devices;

[0090] - short-circuited between the dataline of at least one of the plurality of connected USB devices; wherein the connection, disconnection and I or short-circuiting is performed by switching unit.

[0091] In an example of the disclosure, the data lines are arranged to be disabled for data transfer between the connected USB devices.

[0092] It may be beneficial to include an option for blocking data transfer between connected USB devices. This means that the D+ / D- and data lines are made non-operational for communication. This ensures that a connected device can not be accessed by a (public) charging port and thus prevents hacking I data theft from the device that is charged from the charging port.

[0093] In an example of the disclosure, the charge management device is running in transparent or ghost mode. Transparent mode refers to a state wherein the device acts transparently within the USB connection, essentially becoming invisible to the connected USB devices. In this mode, the charge management device does not simulate or interfere with the operation of the connected USB devices, allowing them to communicate directly with each other as if the charge management device were not present. This mode is particularly useful when it is necessary to monitor or control the charging process without altering the standard behavior or protocol negotiations of the USB devices.

[0094] In another aspect, there is provided an USB power management device arranged to control power levels for USB devices wherein the USB power management device comprises:

[0095] - a plurality of ports, wherein each of the plurality of ports is arranged to connect to one of a plurality of USB devices;

[0096] - a control circuit, arranged to:

[0097] - determine a connection configuration that corresponds to a first power profile, wherein the connection configuration connects pins of the plurality of ports according to the first power profile, which is a current power profile between the plurality of connected USB device;

[0098] - change the connection configuration to select a further power profile, wherein the further power profile has a power level different from the power level of the first power profile.

[0099] In the other aspect, there is provided a USB power management device, which in a similar manner as the USB charge management device, is arranged to change a connection configuration between two USB devices, e.g. a USB source and a USB sink, such that the power level that is being drawn by the source is different then the power level of the initial and original setting in which the USB management device had not been connected. As such, the device is arranged to manipulate and modify the power profile, e.g. to lower the power level to the source in accordance with any USB compatible power level as described in relation to the first aspect of the present disclosure. The a multiprotocol adaptive charging, MPAC, control circuit, of the first aspect as such, correspond to the control circuit of the USB power management device of the other aspect.

[0100] The examples and embodiments of the first aspect, being the USB charge management device, as likewise applicable to the USB power management device of the other aspect of the present disclosure.

[0101] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0102] Fig. 1 depicts the charge management device according to the disclosure ;

[0103] Fig. 2 depicts the switching of data lines according to the disclosure;

[0104] Fig. 3 depicts the controlling of CC lines according to the disclosure;

[0105] Fig. 4 depicts the controlling of pull-up switches according to the disclosure.

[0106] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0107] In Figure 1 , the charge management device 10 is shown sitting in between a source 1 and a sink 2. The source 1 is connected to the charge management device 10 through a USB cable 13. This may be a USB type C cable or any other suitable replacement. The sink 2 is connected to the charge management device 10 through a USB cable 13. The purpose of the charge management device 10 is to control the way the sink 2 is charged by the source 1. The charge management device 10 has no limitation as to at which side the source 1 and sink 2 need to be connected, meaning the source 1 and sink 2 are mutually swappable.

[0108] Figure 2 shows how D+ and D- lines 21 211 of the A side connector 11 are connected to D+ and D- lines 21 211 of the B side connector 12. A first switch 24 allows to open or close the path between the A side and B side. The D+ / D- lines are used by the USB2.0 battery charging protocol and proprietary protocols like QC3. By manipulating the D+ / D- lines (connected, disconnected or shorted), the maximum power level a device can draw from a charger can be manipulated / influenced. This may be switching to a lower power level conforming to a USB standard. With D+ and D- paths connected by switch 24, the connected devices are able to negotiate a higher charging speed if the connected devices support a charging power level protocol which uses the D+ and D- lines. With switch 24 disconnected, the charging power level is limited to the maximum a regular USB port allows. In case a charging protocol can negotiate a higher charging speed, then the first switch 24 can be used to allow or deny this. A second switch 23 can be used together with the first switch 24 to short the D+ and D- lines 21 211 to the A and B side connectors 11 12. When the first switch 24 and the second switch 23 are closed, the charge management device 10 will both mimic a USB 2.0 dedicated charging port, DCP, and block any communication between the devices connected to the A and B side connectors 11 12. In the context of the present disclosure and USB protocols in general, a Dedicated Charging Port (DCP) may refer to a type of USB port designed specifically for charging devices rather than for data communication. When switch 24 is open the charge management device 10 will block any communication between the devices connected to the A and B side connectors 11 12. The control unit 22 controls the switches based on operator input to make the charge management device allow higher or lower charging power levels. The operator can control the charging power level through, for example, but not limited to, a push-button and I or an application running on a mobile device, or the control unit, such as a microcontroller, can operate the power level through smart software algorithms, or as an loT application connected with Wifi or any other suitable alternative.

[0109] Figure 3 shows how the CC lines 31 311 from the A side connector 11 are connected to the CC lines 31 311 from the B side connector 12 by means of a switching unit 32, such as a crossover switch, or any other switches. A USB-C cable only has one CC line going from one end to the other leaving one of two CC pins unused for power level negotiation. Because the USB-C connector can be inserted both ways, the Charge management device 10 as pictured in Figure 1 , has to provide for 4 possible connections of the CC lines. The signal detection unit 33 provides the control unit 22 with information about how the CC lines are connected to the Charge management device 10. The control unit 22 then controls a switching unit 32 to connect the active CC line (31 or 311) from the A side connector 11 to the active CC line (311 or 31) from the B side connector 12 if required by the operating mode of the Charge management device 10. Figure 4 shows how the CC lines 31 311 from the A side connector 11 are connected to the pull-ups for the A side 41 and how the CC lines 31 311 from the B side connector 12 are connected to the pull-ups 41. The control unit 22 enables the pull-ups 41 depending on the charging direction in order to mimic a USB 2.0 dedicated charging port (DCP) towards a USB-PD compliant Sink (typically fitted with a USB-C connector).

Claims

CLAIMS1. A USB charge management device arranged to control charging power levels for charging USB devices wherein the USB charge management device comprises:- a plurality of ports, wherein each of the plurality of ports is arranged to connect to one of a plurality of USB devices; and- a multiprotocol adaptive charging, MPAC, control circuit, arranged to:- determine a connection configuration that corresponds to a first charging profile, wherein the connection configuration connects pins of the plurality of ports according to the first charging profile, which is a current charging profile between the plurality of connected USB device;- change the connection configuration to select a further charging profile, wherein the further charging profile has a charging power level different from the power level of the first charging profile.

2. The USB charge management device in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the further charging profile has a charging power level below the power level of the first charging profile.

3. The USB charge management device in accordance with claim 1 , or 2 wherein the MPAC control circuit is further arranged to: detect a plurality of connected USB devices; determine pins of the plurality of connected USB devices, to determine a connection configuration of the plurality of connected USB devices; wherein the connection configuration corresponds to a first charging profile, which is a current charging profile between the plurality of connected USB devices.

4. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the previous claims, the MPAC control circuit is arranged to determine which of the connected plurality of USB devices is a USB source and which is a USB sink.

5. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein the MPAC control circuit comprises:- a signal detection unit arranged to detect a plurality of signals from the connected USB devices and arranged to transmit the plurality of signals to a control unit;- a switching unit, connected to the pins of the plurality of ports, comprising a plurality of switches arranged to switch the charging profile of the connected plurality of USB devices; and- the control unit in connection with the signal detection unit and the switching unit, and arranged to, based on the detected signal of the plurality of signals received from the signal detection unit, control the switching unit to select the charging profile.

6. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein the pins of the plurality of ports are one or more of the group of connected CC lines, D+ / D- lines, SBU, GND, VBUS, and I or data lines, and wherein preferably the switching unit sets the charging profile of the connected USB devices by controlling the connection of the CC and I or D+ / D- lines between the connected USB devices.

7. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein the MPAC control circuit comprises a plurality of pull-up resistors, wherein the control unit of the MPAC control circuit controls the plurality of pull-up resistors, wherein the plurality of pull-up resistors are connected to the pins of the plurality of ports to set the charging profile of the connected USB devices.

8. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the claims 6 or 7, wherein the signal detection unit is arranged to detect one or more of:- a voltage on and I or current through the VBUS lines- a voltage or signal on the CC lines; and I or- a voltage or signal on the D+ / D- lines; and I or- a voltage or signal on the data lines, such as the TX RX lines; and I or- a voltage or signal on the SBU lines9. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein the MPAC control circuit is arranged to enable charging profiles comprising any of:- a first charging profile to charge at a first power level;- a second charging profile to charge at a second power level, different from the first power level;- a third charging profile to charge at a third power level, different from both the first and second power levels.

10. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein the further charging profile has a charging power corresponding to any one of the following USB standards:- USB 2.0;- USB 3.0 I USB3.1 ;- USB Battery Charging 1.2;- USB-C Current Mode;- USB-C PD; or any other USB standard.

11. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein the switching of the charging profiles is based on user input, or based on an algorithm implemented in the control unit of the MPAC control circuit of the charge management device, or through an loT connection with an app or through a wireless communication method, and wherein preferably the selector is arranged to relay the user input for the switching of the charging profiles.

12. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the claims 6- 11 , wherein the D+ / D- lines are any of:- connected from a first of the plurality of connected USB devices to D+ / D- lines of a further of the plurality of connected USB devices;- disconnected from a first of the plurality of connected USB devices to D+ / D- lines of a further of the plurality of connected USB devices;- short-circuited between the D+ / D- of at least one of the plurality of connected USB devices; whereinthe connection, disconnection and I or short-circuiting is performed by the switching unit.

13. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the claims 6-12, wherein the CC lines are any of:- connected from a first of the plurality of connected USB devices to CC lines of a further of the plurality of connected USB devices;- disconnected from a first of the plurality of connected USB devices to CC lines of a further of the plurality of connected USB devices.

14. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the claims 6-13, wherein the data lines are arranged to be disabled for data transfer between the connected USB devices.

15. The USB charge management device in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein the charge management device is running in transparent mode.

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