Adapter Module Voltage Detection Circuit for Fixed Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional adapters with power delivery (PD) functions are unsuitable for loads that require fixed voltage output, limiting their application and causing unnecessary waste and environmental issues due to the inability to charge devices that only accept fixed voltage.
Innovation Solution
An adapter module with a control unit that communicates through a data transmission line to provide either a fixed or adjustable voltage output based on the load's requirements, using a reference voltage to ensure compatibility with devices lacking USB power delivery communication protocol capabilities, and employing active or passive voltage control units to stabilize the reference voltage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an adapter with power delivery function is used to provide adjustable voltage output, then the adapter can meet the demands of loads requiring different voltage values, but the adapter cannot charge loads that only receive fixed voltage value
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a voltage detection circuit as an intermediary between the power delivery controller and the load. This circuit detects whether the load requires fixed or adjustable voltage and transmits this information to the controller, enabling the adapter to automatically adjust its output mode. The intermediary resolves the contradiction by mediating between the adjustable voltage capability and the fixed voltage requirement of certain loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter dynamically switches between fixed voltage mode and adjustable voltage mode based on the detected load requirements. The system transitions from a static voltage output design to a dynamic one where the voltage characteristics change according to the connected load, thereby achieving both fixed voltage compatibility and adjustable voltage functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a new-type adapter with power delivery function is designed, then the adapter can provide different voltage values, but the specification becomes difficult and unsuitable for conventional adapters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the adapter to universally support both conventional fixed voltage loads and modern power delivery loads through a single device. By integrating voltage detection and automatic mode switching capabilities, the adapter achieves multi-functionality, eliminating the need for separate adapters for different load types and simplifying the overall system specification.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter performs self-diagnosis by detecting the load's voltage requirements automatically without user intervention. The voltage detection circuit and control unit work together to identify the load type and configure the appropriate output mode, enabling the adapter to serve itself in determining its operating parameters and reducing complexity for the user.
3Loss of information
If power delivery negotiation is implemented, then the adapter can communicate voltage requirements with the load, but loads without USB power delivery protocol functionality cannot be charged
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage detection circuit serves as an intermediary that bridges the gap between loads with and without USB power delivery protocol functionality. It detects voltage requirements from loads that lack protocol capability and translates this information into a format the power delivery controller can understand, enabling communication without requiring the load to support the full protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple voltage detection circuit that is less complex and more universally compatible than full USB power delivery negotiation. This simpler detection mechanism acts as a fallback solution that works with basic loads, effectively replacing the need for complex protocol negotiation in cases where the load cannot support it.
Data Source
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AI summary
An adapter module (10) includes an adapter unit (102) and an adapter cable (104). The adapter unit (102) includes a control unit (122), and the adapter cable (104) includes a data transmission line (124) and a voltage control unit (134). The control unit (122) is a power delivery controller. The control unit (122) receives a reference voltage (Vref) provided from the voltage control unit (122) through a data transmission terminal (122-1), and the control unit (122) controls the adapter unit (102) to provide a fixed voltage to a load (20) according to the reference voltage (Vref).