Embedded Subsystem Power Control for Notebook Standby

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current computer systems consume excessive power due to embedded subsystems remaining in an operating state even when the main computer subsystem is in a standby or shutdown state, leading to short stand-by times.

Innovation Solution

Implement a method to control the embedded subsystem's power state based on the main computer subsystem's state, turning off or reducing power when the main subsystem is on and enabling operation only during low-power or shutdown states to conserve energy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the embedded subsystem stays in an operating state to ensure real-time email sending and receiving, then the preset function reliability is improved, but the power consumption increases and stand-by time decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereal-time email sending and receivingVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The embedded subsystem dynamically adjusts its operational state based on the main computer subsystem's state. When the main subsystem is in a low-power or shut-down state, the embedded subsystem activates to handle email functions. When the main subsystem is powered on, the embedded subsystem transitions to a low-power or shut-off state, as the main subsystem can then handle email functions. This dynamic state adjustment resolves the contradiction by making the system adaptive rather than static.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The embedded subsystem operates periodically rather than continuously, activating only when the main computer subsystem is in a low-power or shut-down state and deactivating when the main subsystem is powered on. This periodic operation pattern ensures email functions are maintained while significantly reducing overall power consumption compared to continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Reliability

If the embedded subsystem stays in an operating state to ensure real-time email sending and receiving, then the preset function reliability is improved, but the stand-by time decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereal-time email sending and receivingVSAvoidstand-by time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The embedded subsystem dynamically adjusts its operational state based on the main computer subsystem's state. When the main subsystem is in a low-power or shut-down state, the embedded subsystem activates to handle email functions. When the main subsystem is powered on, the embedded subsystem transitions to a low-power or shut-off state, as the main subsystem can then handle email functions. This dynamic state adjustment resolves the contradiction by making the system adaptive rather than static.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The embedded subsystem operates periodically rather than continuously, activating only when the main computer subsystem is in a low-power or shut-down state and deactivating when the main subsystem is powered on. This periodic operation pattern ensures email functions are maintained while significantly reducing overall power consumption compared to continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Use of energy by moving object

If the embedded subsystem is turned off when the main computer subsystem is powered on, then the power consumption is reduced, but the real-time email sending and receiving function may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidreal-time email sending and receiving
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The email sending and receiving function is implemented through multiple pathways: the embedded subsystem can handle email functions independently, and the main computer subsystem also has the capability to handle email functions when powered on. This multi-functionality allows the system to switch between different operational modes depending on the main subsystem's state, ensuring email functionality is maintained regardless of which subsystem is active.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The embedded subsystem acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between power conservation and functional availability. When the main subsystem is off, the embedded subsystem activates to maintain email functionality. When the main subsystem is on, the embedded subsystem deactivates as the main subsystem takes over email functions. This intermediary approach ensures seamless transition and maintains functionality while optimizing power consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8745417B2Computer system and notebook computer, and method for controlling computer system
Publication Date: 2014.06.03 LENOVO SOFTWARE
  • US8745417B2 patent drawing
  • US8745417B2 patent drawing
  • US8745417B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a computer system, a notebook computer and a method for controlling a computer system. The method comprises steps of: determining current state of the main computer subsystem; turning off the power of the embedded subsystem or enabling the embedded subsystem into a low-power state of the embedded subsystem when the main computer subsystem stays in a power-on state of the main computer subsystem; and enabling the embedded subsystem into an operating state of the embedded subsystem when the main computer subsystem stays in a low-power state or a shut-down state of the main computer subsystem. The computer system comprises: a power supply, a main computer subsystem and an embedded subsystem, wherein the main computer subsystem comprises a state determination module and a state control module for the embedded subsystem. The notebook computer comprises a main board, an embedded subsystem and a power supply, wherein the main board comprises an embedded controller and a power switch controller as well. With the above technical solutions, the power consumption caused by the embedded subsystem is reduced while implementing a preset function in real time.