Power Management via API-Controlled Source Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern external power supplies for portable electronic devices are inefficient under varying load conditions, particularly operating at low power levels where they are less efficient than at optimized load ratings, and current methods focus on reducing power consumption in idle states rather than enhancing efficiency during operation.
Innovation Solution
An information handling system with an external power supply and a battery, managed by a controller via an application programming interface (API) that monitors parameters to switch between power sources based on threshold levels, using the external power supply during high efficiency conditions and the battery during low efficiency conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the external power supply operates at low load conditions, then the device can function during low power demand periods, but the power supply efficiency deteriorates significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the operating parameters of the power supply by switching between battery power and external power supply based on load conditions. The controller monitors power draw levels and transitions power sources to maintain the external power supply within its efficient operating range (20-80% load), thereby resolving the contradiction between device operability and power supply efficiency.
2Loss of energy
If the external power supply is optimized for high efficiency at a specific load rating, then power efficiency improves at that load level, but the device cannot operate efficiently under varying load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic power source selection that adapts to varying load conditions. The controller continuously monitors power draw and dynamically switches between battery and external power supply to match the external power supply's optimal efficiency range with actual device power demands, enabling both high efficiency and adaptability to varying loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from power draw monitoring to control power source selection. The controller receives feedback about current power consumption levels and adjusts the power source configuration accordingly, switching to or from the external power supply based on whether the load falls within the efficient operating range, thus achieving both efficiency and adaptability.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the system uses the external power supply during operation, then continuous power is available, but power consumption increases compared to battery-only operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial use of the external power supply by switching it on only when needed (when power draw exceeds battery capacity or efficiency thresholds are met) and switching to battery power when the external supply would be inefficient. This partial action approach balances continuous power availability with reduced overall power consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing power to an information handling system (IHS) is disclosed wherein the method includes providing a battery and an external power supply operable to supply power to the IHS. The method also includes providing an application programming interface (API) to the IHS, wherein the API is configured to monitor a first parameter and a second parameter. The method further includes supplying power to the IHS via the external power supply if the first parameter reaches a first threshold level and supplying power to the IHS via the battery if the second parameter reaches a second threshold level. An information handling system (IHS) is further disclosed including an external power supply, a battery, and a controller operable to select between the external power supply and the battery to supply power to the IHS. The IHS further includes an application programmable interface (API) operable to monitor a first parameter and direct the controller to select the external power supply to supply power to the IHS if the first parameter reaches a first threshold level, and wherein the API is further operable to monitor a second parameter and direct the controller to select the battery to supply power to the IHS if the second parameter reaches a second threshold level.