Multi-Module Charging Circuit for Concurrent OTG and Battery Powering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electronic devices face challenges in efficiently charging batteries while supporting OTG operations, as they often deplete the server device's battery power and require manual disconnection for wireless charging, lacking a seamless method to utilize multiple charging sources effectively.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of an electronic device with multiple charging modules that can detect and utilize power from various external chargers, allowing concurrent wired and wireless charging, and manage OTG connections by dynamically switching between charging modules based on charging current levels to optimize battery charging and power supply.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single charging module is used to charge the battery during OTG operation, then the device can maintain OTG functionality, but the charging time increases and battery lifetime is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging speedVSAvoidcharging module configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The charging system is divided into multiple independent charging modules (first charging module for wired charging, second charging module for wireless charging) that can operate independently or concurrently. Each module has its own charging circuit and control logic, allowing the system to segment the charging function across multiple pathways to improve overall charging speed while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the server device supplies power to OTG client devices, then data transfer and communication are enabled, but the server device's battery power is depleted

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveOTG functionalityVSAvoidbattery power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables continuous useful action by allowing the battery to be charged concurrently while powering OTG operations. Instead of interrupting OTG functionality to charge the battery or vice versa, the dual charging modules enable both operations to occur simultaneously, ensuring continuous data transfer capability while replenishing battery power through external charging sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

External charging devices (wired charger or wireless charger) act as intermediaries to supply power to the server device during OTG operations. These intermediary power sources bridge the power gap, allowing the server device to maintain both OTG client functionality and battery charge without depleting its own battery reserves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If manual disconnection is required to switch between OTG operation and wireless charging, then simple hardware design is maintained, but user convenience and operation time are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic charging switchingVSAvoidcharging module management
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The charging module configuration is made dynamic rather than static. The system can automatically switch between different charging modules based on operational conditions, such as whether an OTG device is connected or what type of external charger is available. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to optimize charging pathways in real-time without requiring manual user intervention, significantly improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The charging control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the operational state (OTG connection status, battery charge level, external charger presence) and automatically adjust the charging module configuration accordingly. This feedback-driven control enables automatic switching between wired and wireless charging modes, eliminating the need for manual disconnection while maintaining manageable device complexity through intelligent control logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9728989B2Method for charging battery inside electronic device with a plurality of power supplies and a plurality of charging modules with USB OTG functionality
Publication Date: 2017.08.08 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US9728989B2 patent drawing
  • US9728989B2 patent drawing
  • US9728989B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and apparatus for charging a battery in an electronic device In one exemplary method for charging the battery in the electronic device includes detecting a charging input from a plurality of external devices, and when detecting the charging input, charging the battery with power supplied from the external devices using a plurality of charging modules.