Dynamic USB Line Reconfiguration for Adaptive Power Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional USB cables have limited power delivery capabilities, which may not meet the unique and changing power requirements of downstream devices, as they can only provide +5 volt power, limiting the flexibility in power supply configurations.
Innovation Solution
The USB-type cable dynamically configures its lines to carry data, power, or both, allowing for multiple voltage settings, such as 5 volts, 3.3 volts, and 2.5 volts, and even negative voltages, enabling separate power sources and large voltage differences, with downstream devices requesting specific power settings through a handshaking procedure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional USB cables with fixed +5 volt power lines are used, then the cable structure is simple and compatible with standard USB devices, but the power delivery capability is limited and cannot meet diverse power requirements of downstream devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic line reconfiguration where USB cable lines can be dynamically assigned to different functions (power, data, ground) based on the downstream device's power requirements. The upstream device detects the connected device type and reconfigures the cable lines in real-time, transforming static USB lines into dynamic multi-functional conductors that adapt to varying power and data needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes USB cable lines universal by enabling them to serve multiple functions beyond their traditional roles. The same physical lines that normally carry +5V power can be reconfigured to carry different voltages (3.3V, 2.5V, negative voltages) or serve as data lines, allowing a single cable infrastructure to support diverse device requirements without needing dedicated cables for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If USB lines are reconfigured to provide multiple voltage settings and power configurations, then flexible and adaptive power delivery is achieved, but the configuration and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the downstream device automatically communicates its power requirements to the upstream device through standardized protocols. The upstream device autonomously detects the connected device type (battery charger, USB hub, data-only device) and automatically reconfigures the cable lines without requiring manual user intervention or complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback loops where the upstream device continuously monitors the connected downstream device's power consumption and requirements, then adjusts the cable line configuration accordingly. This closed-loop control enables the system to adapt to changing power demands in real-time while maintaining optimal configuration, reducing the need for complex pre-programming or manual setup.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method is provided for an upstream device to configure a plurality of lines in a cable. The method comprises the upstream device placing a first voltage on a first one of the lines traditionally specified to supply power; the upstream device grounding a second one of the lines traditionally specified to be a ground line; and the upstream device placing on a third one of the lines traditionally specified to convey data a second voltage for supplying power.