USB Hub Charging Current Control to Prevent VBUS Drops
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices, such as tablets and smartphones, face challenges in simultaneously connecting multiple external devices due to limited ports, leading to unstable charging currents when using USB hub adaptors, which can result in operation errors and VBUS drops.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that determine the connection of a current supply device to a USB hub adaptor, recognize connected external devices, and adjust the charging current based on the number and type of devices, ensuring stable charging by setting the current through a processor and charging unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed charging current is received regardless of connected external devices, then the charging process is simple, but the current becomes unstable when multiple devices are connected to the USB hub adaptor
Solution Approach 1:
The charging current is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system automatically adjusts the charging current based on the number of external devices connected to the USB hub adaptor. When more devices are connected, the charging current is reduced to maintain stability; when fewer devices are connected, the current can be increased for faster charging.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by monitoring the connection status of external devices through the USB hub adaptor and adjusting the charging current accordingly. The processor receives information about connected devices and modifies the charging parameters to prevent current instability and VBUS drops.
2Device complexity
If one fixed charging current is supplied to the USB hub adaptor, then the charging apparatus is simple, but the VBUS line experiences drops when multiple external devices are connected
Solution Approach 1:
The VBUS current supply is made dynamic based on the load conditions. The system monitors the number of external devices connected to the USB hub adaptor and adjusts the VBUS current accordingly, increasing current when devices are connected and reducing it during charging to prevent drops.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the electrical parameters (current levels) based on the operational state. Different current parameters are applied depending on whether external devices are connected, allowing the system to maintain VBUS stability while supporting both charging and device power needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the electronic device supplies power to the USB hub adaptor during charging, then external devices can be powered, but the charging current becomes unstable when multiple devices are connected
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution is made dynamic and adjustable. The system can switch between different power modes: supplying power to external devices when they are connected, or directing maximum current to charging when no external devices are present. This dynamic adjustment prevents current instability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial power to external devices during charging rather than full power, allowing the charging process to receive sufficient current while still providing operational power to connected devices. This partial action approach balances the power needs of both charging and external devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging method and a charging apparatus for an electronic device are provided. The method for charging a battery of a first electronic device, includes determining whether a current supply device is connected to a second electronic device connected to the first electronic device, recognizing at least one external device connected to the second electronic device when the current supply device is connected to the second electronic device, setting a charging current based on the recognized at least one external device, and receiving the set charging current from the current supply device connected to the second electronic device and charging the battery of the first electronic device.