Electronic Device Thermal Control via Dynamic State Switching

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing number of apps on electronic devices leads to excessive processor resource usage, resulting in device overheating, which affects user experience and requires effective temperature control methods to prevent overheating.

Innovation Solution

A control method and electronic device that detects temperature and switches apps and components from a first to a second state when temperature thresholds are reached, predicting and managing heat generation to maintain the device within safe operating temperatures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If more apps are run on the device to meet user demands, then the functionality and user experience are improved, but the processor resource usage increases leading to device overheating

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapp functionalityVSAvoiddevice temperature
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic state switching for both apps and components based on real-time temperature detection. The system transitions from a first state (high performance, high resource usage) to a second state (low resource usage, heat reduction) when temperature thresholds are exceeded, and switches back when temperature returns to normal levels. This dynamic adjustment allows the device to adapt performance characteristics to thermal conditions, maintaining functionality while preventing overheating.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If processor resources are used intensively to run multiple apps, then the productivity and user experience are improved, but the heat generation increases causing device overheating

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessor efficiencyVSAvoidheat generation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the temperature detection unit continuously monitors device temperature and provides feedback to the processor. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts the operating state of apps and components. When temperature exceeds the first threshold, the system switches to a heat-reducing state; when temperature returns below the threshold, it switches back to the high-performance state. This closed-loop feedback control balances productivity and heat generation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If the device operates at high performance state continuously, then the user experience is maintained, but the device overheating affects user experience

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser experienceVSAvoidoverheating effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by detecting temperature thresholds and switching to heat-reducing states before severe overheating occurs. The temperature detection unit monitors thermal conditions and triggers state transitions proactively when the first temperature threshold is reached, preventing the harmful effects of overheating before they impact user experience. This preventive approach maintains ease of operation by avoiding thermal discomfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10359820B2Electronic device and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2019.07.23 LENOVO (BEIJING) LTD
  • US10359820B2 patent drawing
  • US10359820B2 patent drawing
  • US10359820B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Electronic device and control method of the electronic device are provided. The method includes detecting a current temperature of the electronic device. In response to the current temperature matching a first condition, the method controls an app at the electronic device to switch from a first running state to a second running state. In response to the current temperature matching a second condition, the method controls currently-operating components at the electronic device to switch from a first operating state to a second operating state. The disclosed control method and electronic device ensure the normal operation of the electronic device and the regular user experience in using the electronic device.