USB Hub Power Conversion for Fast Charging and Stable Data Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional USB hubs fail to simultaneously provide rapid charging and data transmission while being portable and cost-effective, often requiring multiple accessories and increasing inconvenience and cost.
Innovation Solution
A hub with integrated complex power converters, including DC/DC converters and a power bank module, that can detect and adjust charging currents and voltages to enable rapid charging and data transmission, using a controller to manage power delivery and prevent overloading, while also incorporating multiple connectors for expanded portability and power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If USB ports provide high charging current for rapid charging, then charging speed is improved, but voltage drop increases causing abnormal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a hub as an intermediary device between the USB port and the portable device. The hub includes a power converter that converts the input voltage to a stable output voltage, acting as a mediator to prevent voltage drop from affecting the charging process. This allows high charging current to be delivered while maintaining voltage stability through the power conversion mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter through the power converter. The converter transforms the input voltage (which may experience drops) into a stable output voltage level, thereby changing the electrical parameters to ensure both rapid charging capability and voltage stability for normal device operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If USB hub expands USB ports for data transmission, then port availability is improved, but power delivery capability deteriorates due to limited power for preventing over current
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the hub universal by integrating multiple functions: it provides USB port expansion for data transmission while simultaneously incorporating a power converter to enable rapid charging. The hub can handle both data communication and high power delivery, serving multiple purposes that traditional USB hubs cannot accomplish alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the data transmission function of USB ports with the power conversion function in a single hub device. By combining these previously separate functionalities, the hub can both expand USB connectivity and provide adequate power delivery for rapid charging without requiring additional accessories.
3Power
If additional adapter is added to supply more power, then power capability is improved, but device complexity and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the USB hub functionality with the power converter and rapid charging capabilities into a single integrated device. Users no longer need to carry separate USB hubs and power adapters; all functions are merged into one hub that provides both data transmission and rapid charging capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub is designed as a universal device that performs multiple functions: USB port expansion, data transmission, voltage conversion, and rapid charging. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate accessories, reducing complexity while maintaining or enhancing power supply capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual switch is used to switch between USB power and external power converter, then power source selection is possible, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hub performs self-service by automatically detecting the available power sources and switching between them without user intervention. The system monitors the USB port power availability and automatically activates the external power converter when needed, eliminating the need for manual switching while maintaining adaptability to different power scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the hub continuously monitors the power status from USB ports and automatically adjusts its operation. Based on the feedback about power availability, the hub decides whether to use USB power or external power converter, enabling automatic adaptation without manual user input.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables simultaneous rapid charging and data transmission across multiple devices with stable voltage and current management, reducing the need for additional accessories and lowering costs by integrating power management within a compact, portable hub.
Implementation Method 1
a first DC/DC converter, the input terminal of which is electrically connected to the USB port via a power transmission line, and an output terminal of which is electrically connected to the portable device
Implementation Method 2
a controller to manage power delivery and prevent overloading, that can detect and adjust charging currents and voltages
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A hub electrically connected to an electronic equipment and at least a portable device located in external environment is provided. The hub includes a first connector, at least a second connector, a controller, and a first DC/DC converter. The first connector is electrically connected to the electronic equipment, the second connector is electrically connected to the portable device. The controller is electrically connected between the first connector and the second connector, and the controller has a data transmission between the portable devices and the electronic equipment mutually. In addition, a signal is transmitted to the portable devices suitably by the controller so that the portable device being with rapid charge mode. An input terminal of the first DC/DC converter is electrically connected to the electronic equipment, and an output terminal of the first DC/DC converter is electrically connected to the portable device, the first DC/DC converter is applied to output stable voltage to the portable device.