USB-C Connection Interface Power Source Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
USB-C cables equipped with USB-PD technology face challenges in accurately adapting voltage and current to match the power needs of electronic devices, often providing power beyond their capabilities due to environmental and operational parameters, leading to potential overheating and safety issues.
Innovation Solution
A method and circuitry within the connection interface that periodically measures and selects the appropriate power supply values, including voltage and current, based on pre-established standards, using a control unit with logic and measurement circuits to ensure valid power delivery, and incorporates temperature sensors to prevent overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the power source provides high voltage and current to meet device power needs, then the power delivery capability is improved, but the risk of overheating and safety issues increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurements of the power source's voltage and current capabilities before actual power delivery. The connection interface measures the open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current of the power source to determine its maximum power delivery capability in advance, preventing overheating by establishing safe operating parameters before high power is delivered to the device.
2Reliability
If the connection interface continuously monitors power parameters to ensure safety, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement and control functions into a single integrated connection interface circuit. The same connection interface that establishes the electrical connection also performs the voltage and current measurements, eliminating the need for separate monitoring systems and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining continuous safety monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection interface autonomously measures the power source parameters and determines safe operating limits without requiring external control systems. The circuit self-regulates by comparing measured values against safety thresholds and adjusting power delivery accordingly, reducing system complexity through self-monitoring and self-protection mechanisms.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the power source adapts its output to match device requirements, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the adaptability requirements increase system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power adaptation where the connection interface continuously measures the power source's voltage and current capabilities and adjusts the power delivery parameters in real-time. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize energy efficiency by matching the power output to the actual capabilities of the power source and requirements of the device, without requiring complex pre-programmed adaptation schemes.
Data Source
AI summary
A method selects one or a plurality of sets of values characterizing an electric power of a power source capable of powering a device coupled to the power source via a connection interface. The selection is carried out according to values, characterizing the power supplied by the power source, measured at the connection interface.