Power Storage Adapter Dynamic Source Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems face inefficiencies in power management, as they rely on either internal batteries or external AC-DC converters for power, without a dynamic switching mechanism that optimizes power sourcing based on battery state, temperature, and converter usage, leading to suboptimal performance and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A power storage adapter (PSA) with a controller that dynamically determines whether to source power from an internal battery or an external AC-DC converter based on state of charge, temperature, and converter usage, using a USB power delivery protocol to supply power at various voltage levels, ensuring efficient power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the system relies on internal battery for power, then portability is maintained, but energy efficiency deteriorates when AC line power is available
Solution Approach 1:
The power storage adapter implements dynamic power source selection, automatically switching between AC-DC converter and battery based on real-time operating conditions such as state of charge, temperature, and converter usage. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by optimizing energy efficiency when AC power is available while maintaining the ability to operate portably when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors and responds to changes in operating parameters (battery state of charge, temperature, converter usage duration) to determine the optimal power source. By continuously evaluating these parameters, the system can transition between power sources to maximize energy efficiency without sacrificing adaptability.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the system uses AC-DC converter for power, then energy efficiency improves, but reliability deteriorates when AC line power is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-charges the battery when AC line power is available, creating an energy reserve that cushions against future power outages. This beforehand preparation ensures that when AC power becomes unavailable, the system can seamlessly transition to battery power without interruption, maintaining reliability while having previously optimized for energy efficiency using AC power.
Solution Approach 2:
The power storage adapter continuously monitors the availability of AC line power and the state of the battery, using this feedback to dynamically adjust the power source selection. When AC power is detected, the system utilizes it for efficient operation and recharges the battery; when AC power is lost, the feedback mechanism triggers a switch to battery power, ensuring continuous reliable operation.
3Quantity of substance
If the battery is continuously charged from AC-DC converter, then state of charge is maintained, but temperature increases reducing system reliability
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous charging, the system implements periodic charging cycles based on monitored conditions. The AC-DC converter charges the battery only when temperature conditions are favorable and state of charge thresholds are not met, then pauses charging to allow temperature stabilization. This periodic approach maintains adequate battery charge levels while preventing excessive temperature buildup that would compromise reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An external power storage adapter (PSA) may supply electrical power to a portable information handling system or other power consuming device. The power storage adapter may include an AC-DC converter, a battery, and intelligent power management functionality. A PSA controller may determine whether electrical power supplied by the power storage adapter should be sourced from the AC-DC converter or from the battery based on various operating parameters of the power storage adapter, such the temperature of the power storage adapter, the state of charge of the battery, the amount of electrical power being supplied by the AC-DC converter, or the amount of time that the AC-DC converter has been supplying electrical power. The power storage adapter may output power to a port of the portable information handling system, such as a USB Type-C port, over a variable power bus.