Embedded Controller Workload Adjustment for Battery Thermal Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems face challenges in extending battery cycle life and managing system operating temperature ranges effectively, leading to reduced performance and lifespan.
Innovation Solution
An information handling system incorporates an embedded controller (EC) that monitors battery temperature and adjusts the processor workload based on temperature thresholds, using a look-up table to determine optimal power management strategies, thereby controlling battery discharging rates and extending cycle life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the processor runs at high workload to improve system performance, then productivity increases, but battery temperature rises and cycle life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts processor workload based on real-time battery temperature monitoring. The embedded controller continuously monitors battery temperature and communicates with the processor to adjust workload levels, transforming the static performance state into a dynamic one that adapts to battery conditions, thereby extending battery cycle life while maintaining optimal performance when possible
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the processor by adjusting workload levels based on battery temperature thresholds. When battery temperature exceeds predefined thresholds, the system modifies processor performance parameters to reduce thermal stress on the battery, effectively using parameter changes to resolve the contradiction between performance and battery longevity
2Reliability
If the processor workload is reduced to extend battery life, then battery cycle life increases, but system performance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic workload adjustment that allows the processor to operate at high performance levels when battery temperature is within acceptable ranges, and automatically reduces workload only when necessary to protect battery health. This dynamic approach ensures that performance is not unnecessarily compromised while still extending battery cycle life
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded controller provides continuous feedback about battery temperature to the processor, enabling the system to make informed decisions about workload adjustment. This feedback mechanism ensures that performance is reduced only when battery temperature actually exceeds safe thresholds, rather than applying constant performance limits
3Productivity
If the battery discharges at high rate to power intensive workloads, then system performance is maintained, but battery temperature increases and accelerates degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses real-time battery temperature feedback from the embedded controller to monitor discharge conditions. When temperature approaches critical thresholds during high-rate discharge, the system receives temperature information and can adjust processor workload to prevent excessive heating, thereby managing the trade-off between performance and temperature control
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the discharge rate parameter of the battery by adjusting processor workload based on temperature thresholds. When battery temperature exceeds predefined limits, the system modifies the power consumption parameters to reduce discharge rate, effectively using parameter changes to control both performance and temperature
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system includes a processor, an embedded controller (EC) and a battery system. The EC sends a request to the processor based upon a temperature of the battery system. The request includes power limit recommendation that is received by the processor. The processor adjusts a workload based upon the received power limit recommendation from the EC. The adjustment in the workload may correspond to a decrease in discharging rates of the battery system.