USB-C Power Source Circuit Using CC Pins for Temperature Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power conversion systems require dedicated temperature sensing pins, which increase hardware resources and package size, and limit design flexibility.
Innovation Solution
Implement multifunctional pins for both communication and temperature sensing, integrating a temperature sensing component between configuration channel pins of a USB Type-C connector, allowing temperature sensing during communication inactivity without additional pins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated temperature sensing pins are used, then temperature sensing function is achieved, but pin count and package size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration channel pins (CC1_src, CC2_src) are designed to perform multiple functions: connection detection, orientation determination, current capability negotiation, and temperature sensing. By making these pins universal, the patent eliminates the need for dedicated temperature sensing pins while maintaining all required functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the temperature sensing function with the existing configuration channel pins, merging two separate functions (communication/negotiation and temperature sensing) into a single pin structure. This reduces the total pin count by consolidating functionality.
2Reliability
If dedicated temperature sensing pins are used, then temperature sensing function is achieved, but package size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration channel pins are designed to perform multiple functions including temperature sensing, which eliminates the need for additional dedicated pins and thereby reduces the overall package size of the integrated circuit.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the temperature sensing function into the existing configuration channel pins, the patent reduces the total number of pins required, which directly leads to a smaller package size for the integrated circuit.
3Reliability
If dedicated temperature sensing pins are used, then temperature sensing function is achieved, but design flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration channel pins are designed as universal pins that can adapt to different functions including connection detection, orientation determination, current capability negotiation, and temperature sensing. This multi-functionality provides greater design flexibility for compact electronic devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The pins dynamically switch between different functions based on operational mode. The configuration channel pins can transition between communication/negotiation modes and temperature sensing modes, providing adaptive functionality that enhances design flexibility.
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
Reduces hardware requirements, saves pin count, and enhances system integration by eliminating the need for dedicated temperature sensing pins while maintaining temperature sensing functionality.
Implementation Method 1
These pins are specifically used for connecting a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) resistor or other sensing components to detect the temperature condition of the system
Data Source
AI summary
A power source circuit includes: a first and a second multifunctional pins, configured for communication and temperature sensing. A temperature sensing component is coupled between the first and second multifunctional pins. In a connection detection mode, a connection detection current is provided through the first and/or second multifunctional pin to detect whether a power sink circuit is connected to the power source circuit. The power sink circuit includes a pull-down resistor couple to the first and/or second multifunctional pin for determining whether the power source circuit is connected to the power sink circuit. When the power sink circuit is connected to the power source circuit, in a temperature sensing mode, the first and second multifunctional pins are configured into a temperature sensing configuration to generate an electrical characteristic on the temperature sensing component, and to obtain the electrical characteristic through the first and/or second multifunctional pin, thereby performing temperature sensing.