Universal Charger Controller for Apple and Non-Apple Device Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing chargers for portable electronic devices require separate chargers or conversion adapters for devices made by Apple Computer, Inc. and those made by other manufacturers due to different authentication methods, leading to increased costs and user inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
A charger with a power supply, USB connector, switching element, resistor bridge circuit, and controller that sets the D− and D+ terminals to middle or power supply potential based on the device type, allowing authentication and charging of both Apple and non-Apple devices using a single charger.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate chargers are provided for Apple and non-Apple devices, then authentication reliability is improved, but device complexity and user burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charger is designed with a universal USB interface that can authenticate and charge both Apple and non-Apple devices through a single unit. The controller automatically detects device type and switches authentication modes accordingly, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated chargers while maintaining reliable authentication for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The charger dynamically switches between different authentication modes based on device detection. The controller can transition between Apple authentication mode (using D+ and D- terminals) and non-Apple authentication mode (using Vbus and GND terminals), allowing a single charger to adapt to different device types without requiring manual configuration or multiple fixed-mode chargers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conversion adapters are provided, then compatibility is improved, but cost and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The charger integrates both Apple and non-Apple authentication capabilities into a single universal device. Users simply connect their device via USB cable without needing to select or convert between different charger types. The controller automatically identifies the device type and applies the appropriate authentication protocol, making the charging process as convenient as using a standard USB charger.
3Weight of moving object
If USB interface charging is used, then charger size and weight are reduced, but charging current may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The charger dynamically adjusts the authentication protocol based on device type to maximize charging current within USB limits. For non-Apple devices, it uses Vbus-GND authentication that can achieve higher currents. For Apple devices, it uses D+-D- authentication appropriate for those devices. This dynamic adaptation allows the lightweight USB charger to provide optimal charging current for each device type without requiring heavy dedicated charging equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
A charger includes a power supply generating a direct current power supply potential, an output transistor, a USB connector, a controller, and a resistor bridge circuit. The controller has a potential setting circuit which sets the potentials of the first and second connection nodes of the resistor bridge circuit to a middle potential between a power supply potential and a ground potential in a first mode, and sets the potentials of the first and second connection nodes to the power supply potential in a second mode.