USB Power Control for Projector Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information handling systems face challenges in conveniently powering portable projectors, which require external power sources and setup, due to variations in power capabilities and requirements.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that provide power to projectors through a communication interface, transitioning from a low power level to a higher level based on identification information, allowing direct power draw from the information handling system without external connections, using a USB interface to simplify setup and ensure compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If power is provided over a communication interface at a higher level to operate the projector, then the projector can present visual images without external power connections, but the information handling system may exceed its power output capability
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification and capability verification through the communication interface before enabling high-power mode. The projector manager communicates identification information and verifies power capability in advance, allowing the system to prepare appropriate power levels before the projector actually needs them, thus avoiding exceeding power capabilities while enabling convenient operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The power delivery is made dynamic and adjustable based on verified capability. The system transitions from a first power level to a second higher power level based on communication results, allowing the power output to adapt to actual needs while remaining within safe limits. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between providing sufficient power and avoiding overload.
2Power
If power is increased to the second level to operate the projector, then visual image presentation is enabled, but protective circuits may be unnecessarily activated if capability is not verified
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback through bidirectional communication between the projector manager and projector controller. The projector manager sends identification information and receives capability information, then uses this feedback to determine the appropriate power level. This feedback loop ensures power is increased only when capability is confirmed, preventing unnecessary protective circuit activation while enabling sufficient power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
Capability verification is performed in advance through communication before power level adjustment. The system exchanges identification and capability information beforehand, so that when power is increased to the second level, it is already confirmed safe to do so, preventing false activation of protective circuits.
3Device complexity
If a communication interface is used to provide power, then external power connections are eliminated, but power capability verification is required before high power delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The communication interface serves multiple functions: data transmission, identification exchange, capability verification, and power control. By making the interface universal, the system eliminates the need for separate power connection hardware while integrating all necessary verification and control functions into the existing communication pathway, thus reducing overall complexity despite adding verification steps.
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system powers a projector through a communication interface, such as a USB interface, by selectively enabling first or second power levels through the communication interface. Initially, the communication interface provides a first minimal power level to run a controller on the projector. The controller communicates with the information handling system to establish approval for power at a second level, such as by communicating an identifier or a power level to the information handling system. The projector approves a power draw at the second power level based upon information received from the information handling system. The projector draws power at a second level that is adequate to fully operate the projector for presentation of visual images.