Multiport Power Management for Thin Information Handling Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Information handling systems face challenges in providing consistent power due to large power consumption variances, especially in low-profile designs where space for power management is limited, leading to unpredictable power surges and potential system crashes.

Innovation Solution

A power manager system that monitors and optimizes power sources from multiple ports, including USB Type C and DisplayPort connectors, to ensure continuous power supply by adapting to changes in power configurations and impedance matching, providing a user interface for optimal power management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If thin housing is used for low-profile information handling systems, then mobility and portability are improved, but space for power management components (capacitors, battery) is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehousing thicknessVSAvoidspace for power management components

Core Design Contradiction:

Weight of moving objectVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines power and communication functions into a single USB connector, eliminating the need for separate dedicated power connector and reducing housing space requirements. Multiple functions (power input, power output, data communication) are merged into one interface, allowing thin housing design while maintaining adequate power management capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The USB connector is designed to serve multiple purposes: receiving power input, providing power output to peripherals, and enabling data communication. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate connectors needed, freeing up housing space while maintaining comprehensive power management capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If powerful processing components are used, then processing capability is improved, but power consumption increases beyond what external power supply can provide

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing capabilityVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The power management system dynamically adjusts power allocation based on real-time conditions. The controller monitors power availability from external sources and battery status, then dynamically switches between power sources and adjusts component power states to match available power while maintaining optimal processing capability when power is available

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters by switching between different power modes. When external power is available, the system operates at full processing capability. When external power is removed, the system transitions to battery power mode with adjusted power consumption parameters, allowing the same hardware to operate at different performance levels based on power availability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Loss of energy

If power saving logic is used, then power consumption during idle operations is reduced, but current draw spikes during application initiation cannot be handled

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower consumption during idleVSAvoidsystem stability during power transitions

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The power management controller continuously monitors power source availability and system power state before power transitions occur. When external power connection is detected or disconnected, the controller proactively prepares the power management circuitry and adjusts component power states in advance, preventing current draw spikes from causing system instability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements continuous feedback monitoring of power consumption, battery charge level, and external power availability. This feedback loop allows the controller to anticipate power needs and adjust power allocation dynamically, ensuring stable operation during application initiation while maintaining power savings during idle periods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

4Power

If multiple power sources are connected simultaneously, then power availability is improved, but power surges and system crashes occur due to unexpected power configuration changes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower availabilityVSAvoidsystem stability during power transitions

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The power management controller acts as an intermediary between multiple power sources and the system components. It monitors and manages power flow from external power sources and battery, coordinating their interaction to prevent power surges. The controller mediates power transitions and ensures smooth handoff between power sources, maintaining system stability even when power configurations change unexpectedly

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10019049B2Information handling system multiport power management

Publication Date: 2018.07.10 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

An information handling system allocates power for internal use and to support peripheral device operations by managing bi-directional power transfer at plural cable ports. A user interface presents to an end user the detected power transfer states and alternative states for alternative power and data transfer rates with changed cable and port connections. The user interface provides users with real time information for power and data transfer configurations that help optimize information handling system performance.