Multi-Port Electronic Device Parallel Charging Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with multiple USB ports cannot effectively utilize power from multiple connected power supply devices, limiting the charging capacity of their batteries.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates multiple ports, switching converters, input switches, and load switches, controlled by dedicated controllers to manage power flow between ports and the battery, allowing for various operation modes that enable simultaneous use of multiple power sources for efficient charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple USB ports are provided in the electronic device, then the adaptability and versatility of the device is improved, but the multiple ports cannot be utilized effectively for charging since only one power supply device can charge the battery at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system is segmented into multiple independent charging paths, each consisting of a port, switching converter, and associated control circuitry. Each path can independently process power from different power supply devices, allowing parallel charging operations while maintaining port-level independence for effective utilization of multiple ports
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different operating modes (single-port charging, dual-port charging, power output modes) based on the connection status of power supply devices. The switching converters and controllers adapt their operation in real-time to maximize charging efficiency when multiple power sources are available
2Device complexity
If only one power supply device is used for charging, then the device complexity is reduced, but the charging time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple switching converters are merged into a single integrated charging system that shares common control logic and power management resources. This allows the system to combine power from multiple sources while avoiding the need for completely separate charging circuits, thereby reducing overall complexity while enabling parallel charging to shorten charging time
3Productivity
If switching converters operate in parallel to enable higher current charging, then the productivity and charging speed are improved, but the device complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the output currents and voltages of parallel switching converters. Based on this feedback, the controllers dynamically adjust the duty cycles and switching frequencies to maintain stable parallel operation, share power loads evenly, and prevent circulating currents, thereby managing the complexity of parallel converter control while achieving high-speed charging
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration allows for the effective utilization of multiple ports, enabling higher current charging and reducing charging time by operating switching converters in parallel, thus optimizing battery charging.
Implementation Method 1
a first switching converter, wherein an output of the first switching converter connects to a load; a second switching converter
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides electronic devices that effectively utilize multiple ports. A first input switch is provided between a first port and an input of a first switching converter. A second input switch is provided between a second port and an input of a second switching converter. A load is connected to an output of the first switching converter. A first load switch is provided between the output of the first switching converter and a battery, and a second load switch is provided between an output of the second switching converter and the battery.