Computer Display Power Modes Based on USB-C Adaptor Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
The proliferation of mobile electronic devices has led to a need for versatile battery charging solutions, with USB Type C ports offering a common charging standard, but existing video display devices often require higher-rated power adaptors for power delivery, limiting flexibility and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A power controller in video display devices senses the power supplied via USB Type C ports, automatically configuring the device to operate in either a basic or enhanced mode based on the power threshold, allowing use with either lower- or higher-rated adaptors, and dynamically allocates power to connected devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If video display devices are configured to support power delivery via USB Type C ports, then the ability to charge mobile electronic devices is improved, but higher-rated power adaptors are required which increases cost and reduces flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its power consumption based on the capabilities of the connected power adaptor. The controller monitors the power delivery capacity and automatically configures the display device to operate in appropriate modes, enabling compatibility with both high-powered and low-powered adaptors without requiring a minimum adaptor rating.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the display device based on the detected power adaptor capabilities. By adjusting power consumption levels, refresh rates, and other operational parameters, the system can function with adaptors of varying power ratings, thus improving charger compatibility without mandating high-powered adaptors.
2Power
If the display device draws larger current to support power delivery, then the ability to power connected devices is improved, but the risk of overheating and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the power delivery status and thermal conditions. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts the current draw and power distribution in real-time, preventing excessive current that could cause overheating while maintaining adequate power delivery capability when conditions permit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates protective measures before overheating occurs by implementing thermal management algorithms and current limiting circuits. These pre-emptive controls cushion against potential thermal damage by restricting power draw before dangerous temperature levels are reached, thus maintaining safety while enabling power delivery.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the display device is configured for enhanced power delivery, then the functionality for connected devices is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power controller is designed to perform multiple functions through a single integrated circuit. It handles power delivery management, thermal monitoring, device detection, and operational mode selection universally, rather than requiring separate dedicated circuits for each function. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining enhanced power delivery capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
An example power controller includes a comparator to compare an amount of power supplied at a port of a display device to a first power threshold corresponding to a first operating mode of the display device and a second power threshold corresponding to a second operating mode of the display device. The first power threshold is different from the second power threshold. The power controller further includes a mode controller to configure the display device to operate in at least one of the first operating mode or the second operating mode based on an output of the comparator.