USB-C Docking Station Power Distribution via Segmented Controllers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing USB type-C docking stations typically only charge a single upstream port and fail to efficiently transmit data, images, and power to multiple devices simultaneously, especially when devices have high power demands or the upstream port is not connected.
Innovation Solution
A USB expanding device with multiple USB type-C connection units, each equipped with a multiplexer and power transmission controller, connected to a main controller that distributes power based on charging demand information, allowing simultaneous data, image, and power transmission across multiple USB type-C ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single USB type-C upstream port is used for charging, then the docking station can charge one device, but it cannot efficiently transmit data, images, and power to multiple devices simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power transmission function into multiple independent power transmission controllers, each associated with a USB type-C connection unit. This segmentation allows each controller to independently manage power for connected devices, enabling simultaneous power transmission to multiple devices through different USB ports while maintaining individual control over each connection unit's data and power transmission
2Power
If external DC power is distributed through a single upstream port, then power can be transmitted to one device, but other USB ports fail to operate or charge well when devices have large power demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution system into multiple independent power transmission controllers, each capable of managing power for its associated USB port independently. This allows the docking station to draw power from multiple sources (including power bank functions) and distribute it reliably to multiple ports simultaneously, ensuring that high power demands at one port do not compromise the operation of other ports
Solution Approach 2:
The main controller acts as an intermediary that coordinates between multiple power transmission controllers and manages overall power distribution. It receives charging demand information from connected devices and intelligently allocates power resources, ensuring reliable operation of all USB ports even when devices have large power demands
3Reliability
If the USB type-C upstream port is not connected to any electronic device, then the other USB ports fail to operate or charge well
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates segmented connection units where each USB type-C port has its own power transmission controller that can operate independently. This segmentation allows any USB port to function as an upstream port or be powered by the power bank function, so the docking station maintains operational reliability even when the primary upstream port is not connected
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling any USB type-C connection unit to serve multiple purposes: acting as an upstream port for data and power transmission, or being powered by the power bank function to charge connected devices. This universality ensures that the docking station adapts to different connection scenarios and maintains port operation reliability regardless of upstream port connection status
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a USB expanding device comprising a plurality of USB type-C connection units, a transmission controller, and a main controller. Each of a USB type-C connection unit includes a USB type-C port, a multiplexer, and a power transmission controller. The USB type-C port provides for connecting to an external device. The multiplexer connects to the USB type-C port and the power transmission controller. The transmission controller connects to the multiplexers of each of the USB type-C connection units for controlling the transmission of data, and the main controller connects to the power transmission controllers of each of the USB type-C connection units to distribute power according to the charging request information of the power transmission controllers.