Source Device Power Control for Continuous USB-PD Supply
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In USB Power Delivery systems, when a sink device requests a current value exceeding the predetermined value due to ripple noise, the overcurrent protection function is activated, stopping power supply, which also interrupts data communication and video output without consideration for continuous power adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A source device with a microcomputer control unit adjusts the power supply capacity by re-negotiating power values based on detected requirements, using a second control unit to generate new power information and instruct the first control unit to perform re-negotiation, ensuring continuous power supply while protecting against overcurrent.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the overcurrent protection function is activated to protect against ripple noise, then the safety and reliability of power supply is improved, but the power supply is stopped which interrupts data communication and video output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of power supply capacity by re-negotiating power values between source and sink devices. When overcurrent is detected, the system dynamically reduces power supply capacity rather than completely stopping it, allowing continuous operation while maintaining protection. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction between reliability (protection) and productivity (continuous supply).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power supply parameters (voltage and current values) through re-negotiation protocols. By adjusting these parameters dynamically based on detected overcurrent conditions, the system maintains protection functionality while continuing power supply. This parameter change approach allows the system to adapt to changing conditions without stopping operation.
2Reliability
If power supply capacity is reduced to protect against overcurrent, then the protection function is secured, but data communication and video output are interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuous power supply by reducing rather than stopping power delivery. The useful action of power supply continues uninterrupted, with the system dynamically adjusting capacity to maintain protection while preserving data communication and video output capabilities. This continuity approach ensures that the protection function is secured without interrupting operational functions.
3Productivity
If the source device re-negotiates power values dynamically, then continuous power supply is maintained, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed with multi-functionality, handling both initial power negotiation and dynamic re-negotiation tasks. By making the control unit universal and capable of managing multiple power supply scenarios, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining continuous power supply capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A source device includes a first control unit to perform a negotiation with the sink device based on power standard and perform control of supplying power to a sink device based on first power information determined by the negotiation. The source device includes a power detection unit to detect power required by the sink device and includes a second control unit to receive the first power information including voltage and current values of power determined by the negotiation and of second power information including voltage and current values of power detected. The second control unit generates third power information, including voltage and current values based on the inputs of the first power information and the second power information and on the predetermined power standard. The second control unit instructs the first control unit to perform negotiation again on the basis of the third power information generated.