Power Adapter Signaling for Computer Power Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computers face inefficiencies due to varying power environments, as they often receive non-uniform power from different sources, such as airplane or office sockets, which can lead to suboptimal operation.
Innovation Solution
A power adapter that converts AC to DC power and sends a signal to the computer indicating the type of power supply, allowing the computer to adjust its operations based on the detected voltage and correlated frequency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the computer operates with a fixed power consumption profile, then the operation is simple and consistent, but the computer cannot adapt to different power supply capacities leading to suboptimal performance or battery drainage
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter detects the power supply type through voltage measurement and sends feedback signals to the computer. The computer receives these signals and adjusts its power consumption accordingly. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt to different power environments without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The power adapter acts as an intermediary between the power supply and the computer. It not only converts power but also communicates power supply characteristics to the computer through signaling circuits, enabling the computer to make informed decisions about its operation mode.
2Productivity
If the computer draws maximum power (90 watts) from all power sources, then performance is optimized for high-power scenarios, but the computer cannot operate from limited power sources like airplane outlets (75 watts)
Solution Approach 1:
The computer dynamically adjusts its power consumption based on the detected power supply capacity. Instead of a fixed power draw, the system modifies its operational characteristics in real-time to match the available power, enabling compatibility with both high-power and limited-power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as CPU frequency, display refresh rate, and peripheral power allocation based on the detected power supply type. These parameter adjustments allow the computer to function effectively across different power environments.
3Speed
If the computer operates in high-performance mode continuously, then processing speed is maximized, but battery life is reduced when AC power is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter provides continuous feedback about the power source type to the computer. When battery power is detected, the system automatically adjusts its performance profile to extend battery life, while maintaining high performance when AC power is available.
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
Enables the computer to tailor its operations according to the available power, optimizing performance and battery life by detecting and responding to different power sources.
Implementation Method 1
A power adapter that converts AC to DC power
Implementation Method 2
The adapter generates the signal by toggling a transistor
Data Source
AI summary
A power adaptor for a computer discovers the power environment when it is plugged into a socket and sends a signal to the computer along the power line indicating the environment, so that the computer can configure operations accordingly.