Portable Computing Device Accessory Power During Hibernation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable computing devices (PCDs) face challenges in providing power to accessories during hibernation mode, as their default behavior is to disable accessory power output, which can hinder user interactions and wake-up events.
Innovation Solution
PCDs can selectively supply power to accessories during hibernation by overriding the default behavior in response to requests from connected accessories, allowing accessories to detect user input or events and wake the device using power management protocols and wake event signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the PCD disables accessory power output during hibernation to conserve battery energy, then battery life is extended, but the accessory cannot detect user input or events to wake the device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power management system into two distinct modes: a first hibernation mode where accessory power output is disabled to maximize battery life, and a second hibernation mode where accessory power output is enabled to allow user interaction. The system can selectively transition between these two modes based on whether wake events need to be detected, thus resolving the contradiction between extending battery life and maintaining user interaction capability.
2Ease of operation
If the PCD provides power to the accessory during hibernation to enable event detection, then user interaction is maintained, but battery energy is consumed faster
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management by allowing the PCD to transition between two hibernation modes. The system can dynamically switch from a first hibernation mode (lower power consumption, no accessory power) to a second hibernation mode (higher power consumption, accessory power enabled) based on operational needs. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by providing user interaction capability only when necessary, thereby minimizing overall battery energy consumption.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the PCD enters deep hibernation mode to maximize power savings, then battery life is extended, but the device cannot wake in response to accessory events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the accessory to detect wake events (such as button presses or connection events) while the PCD is in the first hibernation mode, and then the accessory can trigger a wake-up signal to transition the PCD to an active state. This preliminary detection capability during deep hibernation resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to maintain deep power savings while still reliably detecting and responding to important events when needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A portable computing device (PCD) can selectively supply power to an accessory during PCD hibernation. In some embodiments, the PCD's default behavior is to disable accessory power output during hibernation, and this default behavior can be overridden in response to a request from a connected accessory. The accessory can use the power supplied during PCD hibernation to detect user input (or other) events and wake the PCD from hibernation in response to a detected event. Some accessories can wake the PCD by emulating accessory detachment and reattachment.