USB PD Controller IC CC-Pin High-Voltage Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing power delivery (PD) controllers in USB circuits are vulnerable to damage from unexpected high voltages exceeding the rated range on the configuration channel (CC) pin, which can lead to short-circuits with the power pin (Vbus), causing potential burnout.
Innovation Solution
A PD controller integrated circuit (IC) is designed with a CC pad, first and second switches, a high voltage sensing circuit, and a switch control circuit to monitor and manage voltages, turning off the switches when the CC pin voltage exceeds the rated range to prevent damage, and maintaining a reduced voltage difference to avoid high voltage impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the PD controller IC is designed to withstand high voltage directly, then it can prevent high voltage damage, but it requires expensive high voltage manufacturing process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a voltage dividing circuit as an intermediary between the CC pad and the PD controller circuit. This circuit divides the high voltage from the CC pin into a lower voltage that the PD controller can safely process, allowing the use of standard low-voltage manufacturing processes while maintaining high voltage protection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter through the voltage dividing circuit, transforming the high voltage input into a reduced voltage level suitable for the PD controller. This parameter transformation enables the use of lower withstand voltage manufacturing processes while still handling high voltage signals
2Power
If the CC pin and Vbus pin are short-circuited, then power delivery function is achieved, but high voltage may burn the PD controller through the CC pin
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage dividing circuit serves as a protective intermediary that isolates the PD controller from direct exposure to high voltage on the CC pin. Even when the CC pin experiences high voltage conditions, the dividing circuit ensures only reduced voltage reaches the controller, preventing damage while maintaining power delivery functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements protective measures in advance by designing the voltage dividing circuit before high voltage damage can occur. This pre-configured protection circuitry cushions the PD controller against potential high voltage strikes, ensuring survival even in unexpected short-circuit scenarios
Data Source
AI summary
A PD controller integrated circuit of a USB apparatus is disclosed, including a CC pad, a first switch, a second switch, a PD controller circuit, a high voltage sensing circuit, and a switch control circuit. The high voltage sensing circuit senses the CC pad. When a current voltage of the CC pad does not exceed a rated range, the first switch and the second switch connected in series between the CC pad and the PD controller circuit are turned on. When the current voltage exceeds the rated range, the first switch and the second switch are turned off, and the switch control circuit maintains a voltage of a common node between the first switch and the second switch at a reduced level lower than the current voltage.