USB Type-C CC Toggling Control for Standby Power Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
The USB Type-C ports in systems consume significant power in Standby and Connected Standby states due to the toggling of Configuration Channel (CC) lines, even when no device is attached, leading to inefficiencies and power wastage, especially in systems with multiple ports.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing one of the ground pins in the Type-C connector for active-low connection detection to inhibit CC line toggling until a device is attached, and synchronizing PD controllers to ensure both ports play the same role when connected, thereby reducing unnecessary power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the USB connector maintains continuous electrical connection for charging and data transfer, then power supply and data communication functions are ensured, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic connection management where the USB connector can switch between connected and disconnected states. The connector includes movable contact elements that can be selectively engaged or disengaged from the USB cable, allowing the system to transition from a static always-connected state to a dynamic state where connection is established only when needed for charging or data transfer, thereby reducing continuous power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic connection establishment rather than continuous connection. The USB connector is designed to be connected to the USB cable on-demand based on user need or system requirements, creating a periodic pattern of connection and disconnection. This periodic action eliminates continuous power drain while ensuring charging and data transfer functions are available when required.
2Productivity
If the USB connector remains connected for fast charging, then charging speed is improved, but heat generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design enables dynamic control over the charging process. By allowing the connector to be physically disconnected from the USB cable, users can control the duration and intensity of fast charging sessions. This dynamic capability permits the system to achieve high charging speeds when needed while avoiding prolonged exposure to high current that would generate excessive heat, thus managing thermal effects through controlled connection time.
3Ease of manufacture
If the USB connector is designed with fixed connection structure, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different connection needs is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The USB connector is divided into separable components with movable contact elements that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the connector to maintain a relatively simple overall structure while incorporating movable parts that provide connection flexibility. The segmented design enables the connector to adapt between connected and disconnected states, offering versatility in connection modes without requiring an entirely complex structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates movable contact elements that can be selectively engaged or disengaged, transforming a static fixed-connection structure into a dynamic adaptable structure. This dynamic capability allows the same connector design to serve multiple connection needs - whether fully connected for charging and data transfer, or partially connected - while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through the use of standard movable contact mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
Mechanisms and methods to facilitate power saving in Type-C connectors include an interface to a Configuration Channel (CC) signal path and to a ground signal path of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Type-C connector port, a first circuitry, and a second circuitry. The first circuitry may be operable to place toggled values on the CC signal path. The second circuitry may be operable to couple the ground signal path to a detection signal path. The placement of the toggled values on the CC signal path is enabled when the detection signal path carries a first value that corresponds with the USB Type-C connector port being connected to a USB Type-C device, and may be disabled when the detection signal path carries a second value that corresponds with the USB Type-C connector port not being connected to a USB Type-C device.