Dual Detector Power Supply Restriction for USB Overcurrent Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information processing apparatuses that supply power via USB ports compliant with USB Power Delivery standards lack reliable mechanisms to restrict power supply during overcurrent and overvoltage conditions, potentially damaging both internal and external devices.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus equipped with dual detectors for monitoring voltage and current values on the power line, a switch to control power supply, and a controller that restricts power output when detection values exceed threshold levels, ensuring reliable power supply restriction even if one detector fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single detector is used to monitor voltage and current values, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of power supply restriction deteriorates because the system cannot continue monitoring if the detector fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by providing a redundant detector that can take over monitoring functions if the primary detector fails. This preparatory measure ensures that the power supply restriction system maintains its reliability even when the primary detection mechanism becomes defective, cushioning against the potential failure mode without requiring complex real-time diagnostics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different functional roles to the two detectors: the first detector performs primary monitoring while the second detector serves as a backup with identical monitoring capability. This differentiation in functional priority (primary vs. backup) optimizes the system by having specialized components for specific roles rather than requiring all components to perform multiple functions.
2Power
If USB PD standards are implemented to supply larger electric power, then the power delivery capability is improved, but the risk of electric power abnormalities such as overcurrent and overvoltage increases, requiring more robust protection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring voltage and current values through detectors and using this information to control the power supply switch. The detection results are fed back to the control unit, which adjusts the power supply state accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual electrical conditions and prevents abnormalities from causing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing detection and control mechanisms that prevent overcurrent and overvoltage conditions from causing harm in the first place. Rather than merely responding to damage after it occurs, the system proactively monitors electrical parameters and restricts power supply before abnormal conditions can result in device failure, countering the harmful effects before they manifest.
3Reliability
If dual detectors are implemented for monitoring, then the reliability of detection is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using identical, simple detector components that can be manufactured cost-effectively. Rather than investing in a single complex, highly reliable detector, the system uses two simpler detectors with the same basic function, where the second detector serves as a redundant backup. This approach prioritizes reliability through redundancy while keeping individual component costs and manufacturing complexity relatively low.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a power processor, an interface, a first detector that detects at least one of a voltage value and a current value on an electric power line which connects the power processor and the interface, a second detector that detects at least one of a voltage value and a current value on the electric power line, a switch that switches a supply of electric power supplied from the interface to an outside, and a controller. The controller controls the switch to restrict the electric power supplied from the interface to an outside in a case where at least one of a detection value of the first detector and a detection value of the second detector is equal to or greater than a threshold value.