Switched-Capacitor Voltage Control for External Device Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic apparatuses, such as cameras, face issues with DC-DC converters based on a switched capacitor method, which cannot adjust output voltage to arbitrary values relative to the input voltage, leading to potential inappropriate voltage supply depending on the input voltage from power supplying apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
An electronic apparatus with a conversion unit that converts input voltage to 1/N times the input voltage, where N>1, and a control unit that requests and adjusts the power supplying apparatus to supply appropriate voltages based on communication with external devices, ensuring compatibility with supported voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a DC-DC converter based on a switched capacitor method is used, then conversion efficiency is improved and heat generation is suppressed, but the output voltage cannot be adjusted to an arbitrary voltage relative to the input voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the voltage conversion ratio adjustable rather than fixed. The switched capacitor circuit can dynamically change its conversion ratio between 1/2 and 1/3 (or other predetermined ratios) based on communication with the external apparatus, allowing the output voltage to be adapted to different external device requirements while maintaining the efficiency benefits of the switched capacitor method
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the conversion parameter (voltage ratio) of the switched capacitor circuit from a fixed value to an adjustable value. By modifying the conversion ratio parameter based on external apparatus requirements, the system can supply appropriate voltages (e.g., 5V, 7.5V, 10V) while maintaining the low heat generation and high efficiency characteristics of the switched capacitor approach
2Device complexity
If a fixed conversion ratio of 1/2 is used in the switched capacitor circuit, then the circuit design is simplified, but the output voltage may be excessively high or low for the external apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the switched capacitor circuit to switch between multiple predetermined conversion ratios (e.g., 1/2 and 1/3) based on communication with the external apparatus. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to match the output voltage to the external device's requirements without significantly increasing circuit complexity, as the conversion ratios are predetermined
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback through communication between the electronic apparatus and the external apparatus. The external apparatus provides information about its supported voltage, and the electronic apparatus uses this feedback to select the appropriate conversion ratio, ensuring reliable voltage compatibility while maintaining relatively simple circuit design
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
Enhances the possibility of supplying appropriate voltages to external devices by dynamically adjusting output voltages based on their support capabilities, reducing the risk of inappropriate voltage supply.
Implementation Method 1
a DC-DC converter based on a switched capacitor method has been known as a voltage conversion circuit for an electronic apparatus. A switched capacitor has an excellent conversion efficiency, and can suppress heat generation inside an electronic apparatus.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic apparatus comprises a connection unit and a conversion unit configured to convert an input voltage into an output voltage that is 1/N times the input voltage. A control unit requests a power supplying apparatus for a third voltage that is N times a first voltage. In a case where an external apparatus is connected to the connection unit after the request for the third voltage, the control unit requests the power supplying apparatus to supply a fourth voltage that is N times a second voltage in response to receiving, from the external apparatus, an instruction for setting the second voltage as a voltage to be output from the electronic apparatus to the external apparatus. The second voltage is higher than the first voltage.