Diode-Based Power Feed System for Seamless USB Type-C Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing USB Type-C standard faces challenges in seamless power supply switching between devices, leading to potential data loss and disruption when commercial power is cut off, especially when batteries are involved, and conventional technologies like magnetic sensors fail to ensure uninterrupted power delivery.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a diode-based power feed system with FET switches and magnetic sensors that detect connections and control power paths, allowing for seamless switching between power sources and ensuring continuous power supply without interruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If USB Type-C connector with UPD standard is used for extension function, then downsizing and slimness of compact information terminal is achieved, but power supply switching causes data loss and disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting the connection state of the extension unit before power supply switching occurs. The detection unit identifies when an extension unit is connected, and based on this advance detection, the control unit prepares for seamless power switching by preventing voltage drop to 0V, thereby maintaining continuous power supply and avoiding data loss while enabling the use of compact USB Type-C connector
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional technology with voltage drop to 0V is used for power supply switching, then power direction can be changed, but power supply is interrupted causing data loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by maintaining non-zero voltage during power supply direction switching. The control unit prevents the power supply voltage from dropping to 0V during transition, ensuring continuous power delivery to the compact information terminal. This allows the system to switch power directions adaptively while maintaining uninterrupted power supply, thus preventing data loss and ensuring continuous operation
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If magnetic sensor is used for detecting connection, then connection detection is achieved, but seamless power switching is not ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the detection unit to continuously monitor the connection state of the extension unit and providing this information to the control unit. Based on this real-time feedback, the control unit dynamically adjusts the power supply switching to prevent voltage drop and maintain continuous power delivery. This feedback mechanism ensures both accurate connection detection and seamless power switching, resolving the limitation of conventional magnetic sensor-based detection
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
Enables uninterrupted power delivery and data protection by detecting connections and switching power sources efficiently, maintaining power supply continuity even when commercial power is cut off, and allowing for battery charging from higher voltage sources.
Implementation Method 1
a diode that allows passage of electricity from a power supply, which is coupled with the information processing device, toward a load
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic sensor is used in determining whether or not an extension device and an electronic device are connected
Data Source
AI summary
Diodes allow passage of electricity from a battery or a commercial power supply toward a processing system. A power feed reception terminal establishes a connection with a power feed reception path laid in a docking station or with a power feed reception path laid in another external device. Switches either cut off or connect paths meant for connecting the output sides of the diodes and the power feed reception terminal. A magnetic sensor detects the start of a connection between the power feed reception terminal and the power feed reception path laid in the docking station. When the start of a connection is detected, the control unit switches the switches to allow connection. When the power feed reception terminal is connected to the power feed reception path laid in the other external device, the control unit controls the switches based on the result of communication with the other external device.