USB Charging Port Serial Bus Interface for Fast Power Negotiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
As portable electronic devices with increasing battery capacities require longer charging times with standard USB ports, there is a need for faster charging solutions that can efficiently deliver higher power levels without compromising compatibility with existing USB standards.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for a serial bus interface that enables bi-directional communication between a USB charging port and a device, allowing for adjustable power supply voltage and current delivery by using dedicated voltage levels on the D+ and D- lines, enabling devices to request and receive higher voltages and currents, such as 12V or 20V, for faster charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard USB 2.0 port is used for charging, then compatibility with USB standards is maintained, but charging time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power delivery and serial data communication functions into a single USB charging port interface. The system merges the traditional USB power delivery mechanism with bidirectional serial communication capabilities, allowing the port to simultaneously negotiate and deliver higher power levels while maintaining USB standard compatibility. This integration enables faster charging without requiring separate communication channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging port dynamically adjusts power delivery parameters based on real-time communication with the connected device. The system transitions from static USB power delivery to dynamic negotiation, where the charging voltage and current are continuously optimized through serial data exchange. This dynamic adaptation allows the port to deliver higher power when needed while maintaining compatibility with standard USB devices.
2Loss of time
If charging current or voltage is increased to reduce charging time, then faster charging is achieved, but compatibility with standard USB ports is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements bidirectional feedback communication between the charging port and the connected device. Through serial data exchange, the device communicates its power requirements and the charging port adjusts its output accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that higher power levels are delivered only when the device can safely accept them, maintaining compatibility with standard USB protocols while enabling faster charging when conditions permit.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging port dynamically changes power delivery parameters (voltage and current) based on negotiation results from serial communication. The system transitions from fixed USB power parameters to variable parameters that adapt to device needs. This parameter flexibility allows the port to deliver up to 12V or higher when needed, while defaulting to standard 5V for compatibility with conventional USB devices.
3Power
If bidirectional serial communication is implemented for power negotiation, then faster charging with higher power delivery is enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The USB charging port is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a power delivery interface and a bidirectional communication channel. The same physical interface and protocol stack handle both data exchange and power control functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated communication hardware. This universal approach enables sophisticated power negotiation while avoiding the complexity of multiple independent systems.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment, a method of operating a charging port having a power connection and a first data connection includes determining whether a compatible device is coupled to the charging port and receiving a serial data stream from the compatible device via the first data connection. The serial data stream includes a plurality of symbols representing a request for a power supply voltage and/or current, and the method further includes applying the requested power supply voltage and/or current to the power connection.