Adaptive Charger Switching for Mismatched Power Adapters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power systems for portable electronic devices face challenges in efficiently and safely charging batteries, particularly due to limitations in charger selection, power source adapter compatibility, and mismatched voltage domains, which result in reduced battery life and potential safety issues.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an adaptive power system that includes multiple chargers and a charging controller, which selectively activates chargers based on the charging type or performance characteristics of the power source adapter, ensuring efficient and safe charging procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single charger is used in the power system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different power source adapters and charging types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is segmented into multiple independent charger circuits (first charger, second charger, third charger) each designed to handle specific charging types. The charging controller segments the charging function by selectively activating appropriate chargers based on detected adapter characteristics, enabling adaptability without requiring a single complex universal charger.
Solution Approach 2:
The power system achieves universality by incorporating multiple chargers that can collectively support various charging types (standard charging, fast charging, wireless charging). The charging controller provides multi-functionality by detecting power source adapter characteristics and dynamically selecting the appropriate charger circuit to activate.
2Productivity
If multiple chargers are activated simultaneously, then charging speed and efficiency are improved, but power management complexity and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system dynamically adjusts its configuration by selectively activating or deactivating specific charger circuits based on real-time detection of power source adapter characteristics. The charging controller changes the operational state of charger circuits dynamically, activating only the appropriate charger(s) for the connected adapter type, which optimizes charging speed while maintaining safety through controlled activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging controller implements feedback by detecting characteristics of the connected power source adapter and using this information to determine which charger circuit to activate. This closed-loop control ensures that the appropriate charger is selected based on adapter capabilities, preventing unsafe charging configurations while optimizing charging performance.
3Use of energy by moving object
If charger activation is not selective, then the ease of operation is improved, but the charging efficiency and battery life are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power system provides self-service through automatic charger selection. The charging controller detects the characteristics of the connected power source adapter and autonomously determines which charger circuit to activate without user intervention. This self-service mechanism optimizes charging efficiency by matching the appropriate charger to the adapter type while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by selectively activating different charger circuits based on detected adapter characteristics. The charging controller modifies the electrical configuration parameters (which charger is active) according to the power source type, enabling efficient charging across different adapter types while requiring no user input.
4Reliability
If the power system does not detect adapter characteristics, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to prevent safety issues and optimize charging is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The charging controller performs preliminary detection of power source adapter characteristics before activating any charger circuit. This preliminary action identifies the adapter type and capabilities in advance, enabling the system to select the appropriate charger configuration proactively, which prevents safety issues before they occur while optimizing charging performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging controller serves as an intermediary between the power source adapter and the charger circuits. It detects adapter characteristics and mediates the selection process by determining which charger circuit should be activated. This intermediary function enhances safety by preventing direct connection mismatches while optimizing charging through informed selection.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is disclosed for adaptively providing power. In example implementations, an apparatus includes a power adapter coupler, at least one transistor, a first charger, and a second charger. The first charger and the second charger are coupled between the power adapter coupler and the transistor. The apparatus also includes a first switch, a second switch, and a charging controller. The first switch is coupled in series with the first charger between the power adapter coupler and the transistor. The second switch is coupled in series with the second charger between the power adapter coupler and the transistor. The charging controller is coupled to the first switch and the second switch. The charging controller is configured to selectively close the first switch to connect the first charger to the at least one transistor or close the second switch to connect the second charger to the at least one transistor.