Embedded Controller Wake-Up Timer Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power management systems in connected standby mode often consume more power than necessary due to fixed timing cycles for embedded controllers, which can lead to unnecessary wake-ups and increased energy usage, especially when thermal events are minimal.
Innovation Solution
The system dynamically adjusts the timing cycle of the embedded controller based on operational data such as thermal measurements and battery life, allowing it to wake up only as frequently as required to perform necessary tasks, thereby reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the embedded controller uses a fixed timing cycle to wake up periodically, then it can detect thermal events and perform necessary tasks, but it consumes more power than necessary due to unnecessary wake-ups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by transitioning the embedded controller from a static fixed timing cycle wake-up mechanism to a dynamic adaptive timing cycle mechanism. The wake-up interval is continuously adjusted based on real-time thermal event detection frequency and system state, allowing the controller to wake up more frequently when thermal events are detected and less frequently when the system is stable, thereby reducing unnecessary wake-ups and power consumption while maintaining reliable thermal event detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Parameter changes principle by dynamically modifying the timing cycle parameter based on operational conditions. The system monitors thermal events and system state to adjust the wake-up interval parameter in real-time, changing it from a fixed value to a variable that adapts to current conditions, thus optimizing the balance between detection reliability and power consumption
2Speed
If the embedded controller wakes up frequently to check for tasks, then it can respond quickly to thermal events, but it increases power consumption due to frequent wake-ups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by implementing a dynamic wake-up mechanism that adjusts the frequency of controller activation based on real-time system conditions. The system maintains high response speed capability by being able to wake up quickly when needed, while dynamically reducing wake-up frequency during stable periods to minimize power consumption, thus achieving both fast response and energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Feedback principle by implementing a monitoring and adjustment loop that tracks thermal events and system state, then uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust the wake-up timing cycle. The system receives feedback about thermal conditions and task requirements, and adjusts the wake-up frequency accordingly, maintaining optimal response speed while minimizing unnecessary wake-ups and power consumption
Data Source
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AI summary
Technologies for managing the power usage of components of a computing device, while the components and the computing device are in a low-power state, such as a connected standby state. An embedded controller includes a wake-up timer designed to wake up the embedded controller during a low-power state to allow the embedded controller to perform its tasks. A power control system is configured to dynamically alter the timing cycle of the wake-up timer of the embodied controller based on operation data received. The dynamically altered timing cycle is designed to conserve power, but maintain functionality of the embedded controller.