Batteryless Data Logger with Super-Capacitor Backup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Embedded systems without non-volatile storage, such as set-top boxes, face challenges in storing and accessing diagnostic and status data during power failures, as data stored in volatile memory is lost, and external backup devices may not be safe or accessible in all scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device with a separate power supply using super-capacitors, which includes a data control unit, non-volatile memory, and a state control unit to manage operational states, allowing data backup and retrieval without requiring system power restoration, using an interface bus to connect with computing devices and manage voltage levels for efficient data storage and output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is stored in volatile memory during system operation, then data storage is simple and fast, but data is lost in the event of a power failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary batteryless backup device that sits between the computing device and the user. This backup device includes a control unit that can operate independently using super-capacitor power, allowing it to receive data from the computing device via a data bus and store it in non-volatile memory without requiring the computing device to be powered on or restored, thus solving the data loss problem while keeping the storage system relatively simple
2Reliability
If an external backup device is used to store diagnostic and status information, then data backup capability is provided, but the backup device may not be safe or accessible in all scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The backup device is designed to be self-sufficient with its own power source (super-capacitor) and control unit. It can autonomously receive data from the computing device, store it in non-volatile memory, and later retrieve and output the data without requiring the computing device to be powered on. This self-service capability ensures the backup device is always accessible and safe to operate, regardless of the computing device's power state
3Adaptability or versatility
If a separate power supply with super-capacitor is used for data storage device, then data backup and retrieval is possible without system power, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power supply function from the main computing device and places it in a separate backup device. The backup device uses super-capacitors instead of traditional batteries, providing sufficient power for the control unit to operate during data backup and retrieval operations. This extraction allows the backup device to function independently without relying on the computing device's power supply, achieving operational independence while managing complexity through functional separation
4Duration of action of stationary object
If traditional batteries are used in data storage device, then continuous power is provided, but lifespan is limited and maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the energy storage medium from traditional chemical batteries to super-capacitors. Super-capacitors have a significantly longer lifespan, can withstand millions of charge/discharge cycles, and do not suffer from the degradation issues that plague traditional batteries. This parameter change eliminates the need for frequent maintenance and replacement, while still providing sufficient energy for the backup device's operational requirements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides reliable data backup and retrieval in embedded systems, ensuring data integrity during power failures and reducing maintenance needs, while allowing safe access to diagnostic data without restoring system power, thus addressing the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The data storage device may include a separate power source, such as one or more super-capacitors
Implementation Method 2
the state control unit is operable to monitor a stored voltage level of the at least one super-capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
Data storage device has a super-capacitor, a control unit with multiple operational states, non-volatile memory, and a bus connected to a computing device with a separate power source. The control unit state is set by the power level of the computing device and the super-capacitor. In a backup state, the control unit stores backup data from the computing device in the non-volatile memory using power from the super-capacitor. In an inactive state, the control unit does not receive power from the super-capacitor. The control unit is set to the backup state when the device power level is less than a first threshold and the super-capacitor voltage level is greater than a second threshold. The control unit is set to the inactive state when the super-capacitor voltage level decreases below a third threshold that is less than the second threshold by more than the dielectric absorption voltage gain of the super-capacitor.