Unified Interface Power Negotiation for High-Wattage USB Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing USB power delivery mechanisms are insufficient for powering devices like mobile computers and laptops, as they can consume significantly more power than current USB power supply capabilities, which are limited to around 4.5W for USB 3.0 and 2.5W for USB 2.0, failing to meet the needs of devices that require up to 40W to 85W.
Innovation Solution
A unified interface that combines optical and USB interfaces, with a system management controller (SMC) to negotiate and manage enhanced power delivery modes, allowing for non-standard power levels over standardized connectors, enabling power levels up to 28V and 85W, while maintaining compatibility with existing USB standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If existing USB power delivery mechanisms are used, then compatibility with existing USB standards is maintained, but power delivery capability is insufficient for high-power devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the USB interface by negotiating and switching between different voltage levels (5V, 12V, 20V, 28V) and power modes (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, enhanced power modes). This allows the same physical interface to deliver varying power levels from 2.5W up to 85W, resolving the contradiction between maintaining USB compatibility and enabling high-power delivery to devices like mobile computers.
2Ease of operation
If a unified interface combining optical and USB is used, then single cable solution providing both power and data is achieved, but interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical interface and USB interface into a single unified physical connector and cable assembly. This unified interface can simultaneously or alternatively provide data communication (via optical signals) and power delivery (via electrical contacts), enabling a single cable solution that replaces what would traditionally require separate cables for power and data.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified interface is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a standard USB 2.0 or 3.0 connection for data and low-power devices, switch to enhanced power modes for high-power devices, and utilize optical channels for high-speed data transmission. This multi-functionality allows a single interface to adapt to different device requirements without increasing operational complexity for the user.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and apparatus for intelligently powering an electronic device. In one embodiment of the invention, a systems management controller controls a power interface to intelligently negotiate power distribution with a peer, client, or a host device. The primary data path is unaffected by the system management controller communications. Various aspects of the present invention are demonstrated with respect to an exemplary implementation of a unified interface, consisting of an optical link (data path) and a USB link (power). As described, one exemplary embodiment of the invention provides a device with power at levels which are much increased over prior art USB solutions.