Multi-port USB-C Power Delivery with Shared DC/DC Converter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-port USB-C PD chargers with dedicated DC/DC converters for each port result in reduced power efficiency, increased costs, and larger circuit areas due to inefficient AC/DC conversion and unnecessary power output capabilities when only one port is in use.
Innovation Solution
A multi-port power delivery system with a switch circuit that allows power from multiple power supply units to be delivered to a single port, using a power delivery control circuit to manage power paths and switch control signals based on connection information from each USB port, enabling synchronization of power conversion units and reducing the maximum power output of individual units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated DC/DC converters are provided for each USB port, then each port can independently deliver power, but power efficiency is reduced and circuit area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power conversion functions into a single shared DC/DC converter. The converter can be dynamically allocated to different USB ports through a control circuit that manages power delivery based on port detection and connection status. This consolidation eliminates redundant conversion stages while maintaining the ability to independently power any connected device.
Solution Approach 2:
The single DC/DC converter is designed to serve multiple USB ports universally. The control circuit detects which port is connected and routes power accordingly, allowing the same power conversion unit to fulfill the role of multiple dedicated converters. This multi-functional approach reduces circuit area and improves efficiency while preserving independent power delivery capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated DC/DC converters are provided for each USB port, then each port can independently deliver power, but circuit area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power conversion functions into a single shared DC/DC converter. The converter can be dynamically allocated to different USB ports through a control circuit that manages power delivery based on port detection and connection status. This consolidation eliminates redundant conversion stages while maintaining the ability to independently power any connected device.
Solution Approach 2:
The single DC/DC converter is designed to serve multiple USB ports universally. The control circuit detects which port is connected and routes power accordingly, allowing the same power conversion unit to fulfill the role of multiple dedicated converters. This multi-functional approach reduces circuit area and improves efficiency while preserving independent power delivery capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If AC/DC conversion is performed for each port, then each port can operate independently, but power efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs AC/DC conversion once at the input stage, converting all input power to DC before distribution to USB ports. This preliminary conversion eliminates the need for repeated AC/DC conversion at each port, significantly improving efficiency. The control circuit then manages DC power distribution to active ports based on connection status and power requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-port power delivery system includes a first universal serial bus (USB) port, a second USB port, a first power conversion unit, a second power conversion unit, a power delivery control circuit and a switch circuit. The first USB port is configured to output power delivered to a first power path. The second USB port is configured to output power delivered to a second power path. The first power conversion unit has a first output terminal coupled to the first power path. The second power conversion unit has a second output terminal coupled to the second power path. The power delivery control circuit generates a switch control signal according to first connection information on the first USB port and second connection information on the second USB port. The switch circuit selectively couples the first output terminal to the second output terminal according to the switch control signal.