USB Hub Controller for Simultaneous Quick Charging and Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional USB hubs lack the ability to provide quick charging and data transmission simultaneously, often requiring multiple adapters and being inconvenient for portable device charging and data transfer, especially with limited USB ports on compact devices.
Innovation Solution
A hub with a controller and power module that connects to both electronic devices and AC sources, enabling quick charge mode and data transmission through multiple USB ports, including Type-A and Type-C interfaces, and switching between power supply and charging modes efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a traditional USB hub is used to increase the number of USB ports for data transmission, then data transmission capability is improved, but the power source remains limited and quick charging function is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a traditional USB hub's data transmission capability with a multi-port charger's power delivery capability into a single integrated device. The hub includes both USB data transmission ports and a power module with AC input and multiple USB power output ports, allowing simultaneous data transmission and quick charging functions that were previously separated across multiple devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub is designed to perform multiple functions: it can transmit data between devices connected to its USB ports, provide power charging through its power module, and support both AC power input and USB power output simultaneously. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate USB hubs and chargers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters are used to provide both power and data transmission functions, then functionality is improved, but device complexity and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple previously separate adapters into a single hub device. The hub combines the functions of a USB data hub, a power adapter with AC input, and a multi-port USB charger into one unified device, eliminating the need for users to carry multiple separate adapters.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub serves as a universal device that can handle both data transmission and power charging through its multiple ports. It provides AC power input capability and multiple USB power output ports, allowing it to replace multiple specialized adapters with a single multi-functional device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual switching between USB power source and external power source is implemented, then power source flexibility is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The hub incorporates an automatic switching mechanism that detects the available power source (AC input or USB power input) and automatically routes power to the output ports without requiring manual user intervention. The controller monitors the power input status and autonomously manages the power distribution, making the system self-serve the power switching function.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub implements dynamic power source switching capability where the power input configuration can change automatically based on what is connected. The system can dynamically switch between AC power mode and USB power input mode depending on the presence and status of connected devices, providing adaptive power management without manual intervention.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A hub (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) is electrically connected with an electronic device (10), an AC source (20), and at least one portable device (30) which are located in the outside environment. The electronic device (10) includes a USB port (10a). The hub (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) includes a first connector (111), a second connector (113), a third connector (115), a controller (117), and a power module (119, 219, 319, 319'). The first connector (111) is electrically connected with the USB port (10a) of the electronic device (10). The first connector (111) includes a first data transmission line (1111) and a first power line (1112). The third connector (115) is electrically connected with the AC source (20). The controller (117) is electrically connected between the first data transmission line (1111) and a second data transmission line (1131). The controller (117) and the portable device (30) transmit data to each other. The controller (117) sends a signal to the portable device (30), enabling the portable device (30) to start a quick charge mode. The power module (119, 219, 319, 319') is electrically connected with the first connector (111), the second connector (113), and the third connector (115). The power module (119, 219, 319, 319') supplies power outputted from the AC source (20) or the electronic device (10) to the portable device (30).