Power Bus Data Transceivers for Asymmetrical USB Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing USB interface lacks the capability to efficiently transfer digital data over the power bus without increasing power consumption or complexity, as current methods like frequency shift keying require complex transceivers and result in low data throughput.
Innovation Solution
Implementing low frequency periodic signaling (LFPS) based on pulse width modulation (PWM) to superimpose digital data onto the DC voltage of the power bus, utilizing power bus data transmitters and receivers with AC or inductive isolation coupling, and encoding/decoding circuits to facilitate data transfer without complex transceiver circuitry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If frequency shift keying is used to transfer data over the power bus, then data communication capability is added, but device complexity and power consumption increase due to requiring complex transceivers
Solution Approach 1:
The existing power bus infrastructure is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both power delivery and data communication functions simultaneously. The USB Type-C interface and protocol allow the same physical connection to serve dual purposes, eliminating the need for separate data communication hardware and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines power delivery and data communication into a single integrated system over the USB power bus. By merging these functions into one unified interface with combined transceiver circuitry, the solution reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall system architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If frequency shift keying is used to transfer data over the power bus, then data communication capability is added, but data throughput remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs variable modulation schemes that can dynamically adjust parameters such as modulation depth, symbol rate, and coding rates to optimize data throughput. By changing these parameters based on channel conditions and power levels, the system achieves higher data rates compared to fixed-frequency shift keying methods.
3Speed
If additional connections are added to USB interface for Enhanced SuperSpeed capability, then data transfer rate increases, but power consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power bus is designed to serve multiple functions including power delivery, data communication, and device identification. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve enhanced capabilities without adding separate dedicated connections, thereby avoiding the increased power consumption and cost that would result from additional physical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the existing power bus infrastructure to provide data communication services without requiring additional power-consuming hardware. The same power delivery circuitry is repurposed to carry data signals, allowing the system to serve itself and eliminate the need for separate data communication power supplies.
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 efficient data communication on the power bus with low power consumption and minimal complexity, forming a dual-direction simplex link for asymmetrical data traffic and power delivery, supporting high-speed data transfer rates without the need for additional power or cost penalties.
Implementation Method 1
power bus data transmitters and receivers with AC or inductive isolation coupling
Implementation Method 2
power bus data transmitters and receivers with AC or inductive isolation coupling
Implementation Method 3
superimpose digital data onto the DC voltage of the power bus utilizing power bus data transmitters and receivers with AC or inductive isolation coupling
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus to transfer data via a communication link comprises a power bus interface to a power bus of the communication link; at least one data lane transmitter and receiver pair configured to transfer data via a data lane of the communication link; and a power bus data transmitter and receiver pair configured to transfer data via the power bus using pulse width modulation of a data signal on the power bus.