Smart Power Adapter Cable Control Unit for Port Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for efficient matching between smart DC output ports and non-compatible DC input ports, as well as optimal handling of overload situations in power adapter hubs to minimize the impact on connected electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A power adapter cable with a control unit that transfers power control indications between a smart output port and a DC input port, allowing for appropriate power delivery, and a power adapter hub that reduces power supply to prevent overload by prioritizing susceptible devices and issuing alarms for shutdowns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If smart output ports are used for powering electronic devices, then power delivery efficiency is improved, but compatibility with non-compatible DC input ports deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cable with an embedded control unit that acts as an intermediary between the smart output port and the DC input port. This control unit translates and adapts the power delivery parameters, enabling compatibility between smart ports and non-compatible input ports while maintaining efficient power delivery. The cable mediator resolves the protocol mismatch without requiring changes to either the power source or the electronic device.
2Productivity
If power adapter hubs supply power to multiple devices, then power distribution capability is improved, but overload risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter hub incorporates a control system that continuously monitors the power consumption of connected devices and compares it against the hub's maximum power capacity. When approaching overload conditions, the system provides feedback to adjust power allocation, prioritize critical devices, or shut down non-essential connections, thereby preventing damage while maintaining optimal power distribution across multiple devices.
3Reliability
If power is reduced in overload situations, then device protection is improved, but power delivery capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different power management strategies to different output ports based on device priority and power requirements. Instead of uniformly reducing power across all ports, the control system selectively adjusts power delivery to specific ports, maintaining full power to critical devices while reducing or shutting down power to non-essential devices. This localized approach protects devices from overload while preserving power delivery capability where needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention comprise systems and methods for providing power from DC output ports, typically smart ports, to electronic devices, not necessarily having smart input DC ports. A power adapter cable is provided comprising a control unit that adapts between a smart output port and a DC input port that may not be compatible with the smart output port. Also provided embodiments of a power adapter hub wherein the power supplied through its output ports is selectively reduced in the case of overload, according to a predefined policy.