USB Type-C Configuration Channel Power Direction Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current USB Type-C interfaces do not support rapid and non-disruptive changes in power delivery direction between devices, which can lead to interruptions in data communication and are limited in functionality, especially when devices need to switch roles or when only single-role apparatuses are involved.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method and apparatus that utilize configuration channel terminals to monitor and control power delivery, allowing for the rapid change in power direction without interrupting data transfer by determining when to terminate or initiate power reception and supply through voltage terminals based on changes in voltage or current thresholds, enabling dual-role operations and compatibility with single-role devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power delivery direction changes are implemented in current USB Type-C interfaces, then power role switching is enabled, but data communication is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates power control and data communication into independent channels. Power delivery direction is controlled through configuration channel terminals (CC pins) while data communication continues through dedicated data terminals. This segmentation allows power role switching without interrupting data transfer, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration channel terminals serve as intermediary elements for power direction control. By using CC pins with pull-up/pull-down resistors to indicate power delivery direction, the patent enables power role switching through a separate communication channel that does not interfere with the main data communication path, thus maintaining data continuity while achieving power adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dual-role operations are supported, then device functionality is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal power delivery control mechanisms that work for both single-role and dual-role devices. The configuration channel terminals with pull-up/pull-down resistor configurations provide a standardized interface that automatically adapts to different device roles without requiring separate control logic, thereby enabling dual-role operations while minimizing additional complexity.
3Speed
If rapid power direction changes are implemented, then power delivery speed is improved, but power control precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pull-up and pull-down resistors configured in advance on the configuration channel terminals to pre-establish the power delivery direction indication. When a device wants to switch power direction, it simply changes the resistance configuration (pulling up or down), which rapidly signals the other device to switch power delivery. This preliminary configuration enables fast switching while maintaining precise control through well-defined resistance values and threshold detection.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are disclosed relating to techniques for exchanging data and/or power between a plurality of devices. In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, a device may receive power via a voltage terminal of an interface. The interface may also comprise at least one configuration channel terminal. The device may determine to terminate power reception via the voltage terminal causing a current through the configuration channel terminal to decrease below a threshold, and the device may determine to supply power to the voltage terminal.