Selectable Backup Power Supply for RTC and Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional backup power supply devices for handheld PCs lack the ability to select between standard and premium modes, resulting in insufficient power for long-term operation of memory and real-time clock (RTC) units, with data loss occurring within 30 to 90 minutes in standard mode.
Innovation Solution
A selectable backup power supply device with a backup battery, first, and second power outputting units, allowing for selection between standard and premium modes by controlling power supply to the memory unit based on a selection signal, enabling either continued power to the memory or prioritizing RTC power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the backup battery provides power to both RTC and memory unit simultaneously in standard mode, then data retention is maintained for 30-90 minutes, but the operation duration is limited and cannot achieve long-term power supply
Solution Approach 1:
The power output is segmented into two independent channels: first power outputting unit for RTC and second power outputting unit for memory unit. This segmentation allows selective power distribution, enabling the system to extend operation duration by controlling which components receive power from the backup battery.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts power distribution based on a selection signal. The controller can switch between standard mode (power to both RTC and memory) and premium mode (power to RTC only), making the power supply configuration dynamic rather than fixed, thus resolving the contradiction between data retention reliability and operation duration.
2Loss of information
If the backup battery provides power to both RTC and memory unit, then data is maintained, but the power supply cannot support long-term operation beyond 30-90 minutes
Solution Approach 1:
The memory unit power supply is extracted from the mandatory power distribution in standard mode. In premium mode, the second power outputting unit stops providing power to the memory unit, separating the RTC power supply (essential for timekeeping) from memory power supply (optional for data retention), thereby extending overall system operation duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the power supply parameter by controlling the second power outputting unit to stop outputting voltage to the memory unit in premium mode. This parameter change (from dual-power to single-power configuration) extends the backup battery's operational duration from 30-90 minutes to 168 hours while maintaining RTC functionality.
3Reliability
If the conventional power supply device only supports standard mode, then data retention is ensured, but the system lacks flexibility and cannot optimize for different user needs
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply device achieves multi-functionality by incorporating a controller that responds to selection signals. The same hardware configuration (backup battery, first power outputting unit, second power outputting unit) can perform multiple functions: standard mode for data retention and premium mode for extended operation, making the device adaptable to different user needs without requiring separate hardware systems.
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 extended operation of handheld PCs by allowing users to choose between standard mode for 30-90 minutes of data retention and premium mode for 168 hours of RTC power, addressing the limitations of conventional devices.
Implementation Method 1
a backup battery, a first power outputting unit and a second power outputting unit, wherein the backup battery outputs a backup voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A selectable backup power supply device for providing power to a real time clock (RTC) and a memory unit is disclosed. The device includes a backup battery, a first power outputting unit and a second power outputting unit, wherein the backup battery outputs a backup voltage, the first power outputting unit is connected to the backup battery and the RTC for receiving the backup voltage and outputting a first supply voltage to the RTC, and the second power outputting unit is connected to the backup battery and the memory unit, for receiving the backup voltage and, in accordance with a selection signal, outputting a second supply voltage to the memory unit or stopping the output of the second supply voltage.