Apparatus for detecting feedback on voltage supplied from electronic device to external device

A structure for detecting feedback on a supply voltage when an electronic device supplies a power source to an external device connected to a connector and an operating method thereof are provided. The electronic device includes a power supply device, at least one connector for a connection with an external device, a power line wired between the power supply device and the connector, a feedback line brought into contact with the power line at a location adjacent to the connector between the power supply device and the connector, a voltage compensation circuit detecting feedback on a supply voltage supplied to an external device at the location adjacent to the connector using the feedback line, and a control circuit configured to control a compensation related to the supply voltage based on the detected feedback.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is based on and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of a Korean patent application number 10-2019-0059602, filed on May 21, 2019, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The disclosure relates to a structure for detecting feedback on a supply voltage when a power source is supplied from an electronic device to an external device connected to a connector and an operating method thereof.

2. Description of Related Art

Recently various types of electronic devices such as a mobile communication terminal, a smartphone, a tablet personal computer (PC), a notebook, a wearable device, a smart glass (or head mounted display (HMD)) or a personal computer are widely used in line with the development of the digital technology. The electronic device may execute an application program using computing resources (e.g., processor and a memory) included in the electronic device, and may provide corresponding results (e.g., video and/or audio data) to a user.

The electronic device may include a power supply unit (PSU) for supplying a stable power source to a system (e.g., external device or electronic part within the electronic device).

The electronic device may include a connector for a connection with an external device, and may be supplied with a power source from the external device connected through the connector or may supply a power source to the external device using the PSU.

In order to detect feedback on a power source, the existing electronic device is implemented to detect the feedback by connecting the feedback line of the PSU to a power line close to the PSU among power lines from the PSU to the connector. For example, in the existing electronic device, a supply power source is compensated for by checking feedback in a distance relatively (or comparatively) close to the PSU. In the existing electronic device, however, feedback on a supply power source in a relatively long physical distance (e.g., a distance from the PSU to the connector for a connection with an external device) within the electronic device cannot be checked. Accordingly, a power drop is high in a relatively long distance compared to a relatively short distance, but the existing electronic device cannot detect the power drop and cannot provide an accurate compensation for the power drop.

In an electronic device, several external devices may be connected to one PSU through a connector. A power line may be connected from the PSU of the electronic device to a long distance (e.g., the connector). Accordingly, resistance in the power line may rise because the power line is connected up to a long distance within the electronic device. If a supply current for an external device is increased, a power drop (or loss) may increase based on an increase in the supply current.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure is to provide an electronic device can compensate for a power source supplied to an external electronic device and prevent a power loss by detecting feedback on a power source supplied from a power supply device to the outside and compensating for a supply power source based on a result of the detection.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a power supply device, at least one connector to connect with an external device, a power line wired between the power supply device and the connector, a feedback line brought into contact with the power line at a location adjacent to the at least one connector between the power supply device and the connector, a voltage compensation circuit detecting feedback on a supply voltage supplied to an external device at the location adjacent to the at least one connector using the feedback line, and a control circuit configured to control a compensation related to the supply voltage based on the detected feedback.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a power supply device, at least one connector to connect with an external device, a power line wired between the power supply device and the at least one connector, a feedback line formed to come into contact with a power line at a location adjacent to the at least one connector, a voltage compensation circuit for detecting feedback on a supply voltage supplied to the external device, and a control circuit. The control circuit may be configured to determine a voltage output by the power supply device based on a signal related to the supply voltage of the voltage compensation circuit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to an electronic device and an operating method thereof according to various embodiments, there can be provided a structure for detecting feedback on a supply voltage when a power source is supplied from the electronic device to an external device connected to a connector and an operating method thereof. According to various embodiments, the electronic device can prevent a drop of a supply power source by switching the feedback line of a power supply device according to circumstances. According to various embodiments, in an electronic device, when one or more external devices are connected to a power supply device and a power source is supplied to the one or more external devices, a feedback line may be connected from a location closest to each of the external devices to the power supply device and feedback on a supply voltage for the external device may be detected. According to various embodiments, a feedback line may be connected between a location closest to an external device and a power supply device, voltages different depending on a load of the feedback line may be compared, a compensation voltage may be determined based on a result of the comparison, and an accurate voltage compensation may be provided. According to various embodiments, when one power supply device supplies a power source to a plurality of external devices, a power drop in each load can be properly compensated for.

FIG. 1illustrates an electronic device101in a network environment100according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The program140may be stored in the memory130as software, and may include an operating system (OS)142, middleware144, or an application146.

The input device150may receive a command or data to be used by another component (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101, and may include a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The sound output device155may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device101and may include a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record, and the receiver may be used for incoming calls and may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the speaker.

The audio module170may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa, and may obtain the sound via the input device150, or output the sound via the sound output device155or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device102) directly (e.g., over wires) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device101.

The interface177may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device101to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102) directly (e.g., over wires) or wirelessly, and may include a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

A connecting terminal178may include a connector via which the electronic device101may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102), and may include a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The haptic module179may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation, and may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

The camera module180may capture a still image or moving images and may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module188may manage power supplied to the electronic device101, and may be implemented as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery189may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device101, and may include a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

Commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device101and the external electronic device104via the server108coupled with the second network199. Each of the electronic devices102and104may be a device of a same type as, or a different type, from the electronic device101.

The electronic device101according to embodiments may be one of various types of electronic devices, such as a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance. However, the electronic devices are not limited to those described above.

It should be appreciated that various embodiments of the disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or replacements for a corresponding embodiment. With regard to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It is to be understood that a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the things, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

FIG. 2is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a block for describing an operation of a configuration for detecting feedback in the electronic device101according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 2, the electronic device101according to various embodiments may include a connector210, a voltage compensation circuit220(or feedback control circuit or a feedback detection circuit), a control circuit260, and a power switch (271,273,281,283) (e.g., transmission switches271and273and/or reception switches281and283).

In one embodiment, the connector210may be a terminal according to the universal serial bus (USB) standard. For example, the connector210may be a USB connector, such as USB Type A, B or C. The connector210may be an interface for USB charging and/or power supply (e.g., on the go (OTG)) to an external device. According to one embodiment, the connector210may be connected to an external device (not illustrated). For example, the connector210may illustrate a connection terminal (e.g., the connection terminal178inFIG. 1) capable of exchanging data using a wired method (or wire (or direct) connection) based on a cable, such as a USB. According to one embodiment, the electronic device101includes at least one connector210.FIG. 2may illustrate an example in which the electronic device101includes two connectors, that is, a first connector211and a second connector213. Various embodiments are not limited to the example. The electronic device101may be configured to include one connector210or at least two connectors.

In one embodiment,FIG. 2may illustrate an example of the electronic device101in which the connector210for a connection with an external device includes at least two connectors (e.g., the first connector211and the second connector213) and at least two external devices may be connected to the electronic device101through the least two connectors210.

In one embodiment, the external device may include various devices which may be connected to the electronic device101through the connector210of the electronic device101. For example, the external device may include an external power device, such as a power adaptor (e.g., common power adaptor or high voltage power adaptor (or high speed charger)), or a power consumption device, such as a USB device (e.g., mouse, keyboard, memory, printer, camera or storage device (e.g., external hard, CF card or SD card)). In one embodiment, the external device may include an OTG device (e.g., OTG converter or OTG cable). According to one embodiment, the external device may be connected to the connector210of the electronic device101through an OTG device or may be directly connected to the connector210.

According to one embodiment, if an external device (e.g., external power device) for supplying a power source is connected to the connector210, the electronic device101may be supplied with (or receive) a power source from the external device. For example, the external device is a device which may be functionally connected to the electronic device101, and may be a power adaptor. According to one embodiment, if an external device (e.g., power consumption device) that consumes a power source is connected to the connector210, the electronic device101may convert the battery voltage of the battery (e.g., the battery189inFIG. 1) of the electronic device101into an operating voltage of the external device through a power supply device270, and may provide (or transmit) the converted voltage to the external device. For example, the external device is a device which may be functionally connected to the electronic device101, and may be a power consumption device (or external power receiver) (e.g., OTG device) for receiving a power source (or power) from the electronic device101. The OTG device may operate using the battery voltage of the electronic device101. According to one embodiment, the control circuit260may supply the battery voltage to the external device in a direction opposite a charging direction (i.e., direction opposite a current direction upon charging).

In one embodiment, the voltage compensation circuit220may illustrate a circuit for identifying a power drop by detecting feedback on a given voltage (e.g., supply voltage) when the given voltage is supplied to an external device through the power supply device270and compensating for a voltage based on the power drop. According to one embodiment, the voltage compensation circuit220may include a first feedback line switch230, a second feedback line switch, and a switch controller250(or feedback switch).

The first feedback line switch230according to one embodiment may be a switch capable of switching (e.g., on/off (or close/open) the connection of a first feedback line235in a first power line275(e.g., a line in a reception path A or a line in a transmission path B). For example, the first feedback line switch230may be a switch for connecting the first feedback line235(e.g., connecting a feedback path C) in order to detect feedback associated with a voltage supplied to an external device connected to the first connector211in the first power line275in a transmission mode (or Tx mode) or for releasing (or off) the connection of the first feedback line235(e.g., releasing the connection of the feedback path C) in a reception mode (or Rx mode).

The second feedback line switch240according to one embodiment may be a switch capable of switching (e.g., on/off (or open/close) the connection of a second feedback line245in a second power line285(e.g., the line in the reception path A or the line in the transmission path B). For example, the second feedback line switch240may be a switch for connecting the second feedback line245(e.g., connecting the feedback path C) in order to detect feedback associated with a voltage supplied to an external device connected to the second connector213in the second power line285in the transmission mode (or Tx mode) or for releasing (or off) the connection of the second feedback line245(e.g., releasing the connection of the feedback path C) in the reception mode (or Rx mode).

In one embodiment, each of the first feedback line switch230and the second feedback line switch240may include a switch for the connection or blocking (or connection release) of the feedback path C between the power supply device270and an external device connected through the connector210. For example, each of the first feedback line switch230and the second feedback line switch240may include a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) switch, but is not limited thereto and may be implemented by various switches (e.g., metal-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MESFET) switch or metal-insulator-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MISFET) switch).

In one embodiment, in the example ofFIG. 2, the reception path A and transmission path B according to each of the power lines275and285have been divided and illustrated, for convenience of description, but the transmission path and reception path in each of the power lines275and285may be implemented as a single line. For example, each of the first power line275and the second power line285may be designed as a power line for a contact point so that bi-directional communication (or transmission and reception) is possible through a single power line.

The switch controller250according to one embodiment may be a circuit capable of controlling (e.g., on/off (or open/close) the switching (or connection) of the first feedback line switch230and/or the second feedback line switch240.

According to various embodiments, a feedback line (e.g., the first feedback line235or the second feedback line245) may be a power detection line for detecting feedback associated with a power source supplied to an external device at the end (e.g., location closest to the connector210) of a power line (e.g., the first power line275or the second power line285) connected to the connector210(e.g., the first connector211or the second connector213) in the Tx mode in which a power source is supplied from the power supply device270to the external device. According to one embodiment, the feedback line235or245may be connected to the power supply device270for feedback in the Tx mode, and the connection of the feedback line235or245with the power supply device270may be released in the Rx mode.

For example, the feedback lines235and245may include feedback line switches (e.g., the first feedback line switch230and the second feedback line switch240). When a power source is supplied from the power supply device270to an external device connected to the connector210in the Tx mode, each of the feedback lines235and245may form (or connect) a feedback path to the power supply device270by making on (or closing) each of the feedback line switches230and240. For example, each of the feedback lines235and245may make on (or close) each of the feedback line switches230and240of the feedback lines235and245when operating in the Tx mode in the path in which an external device has been connected, and may make off (or open) each of the feedback line switches230and240of the feedback lines235and245when operating in the Rx mode in the path in which an external device has been connected.

According to various embodiments, each of the feedback lines235and245may be brought into contact at each of the power lines275and285(e.g., an end connected to the connector210, for example, each of locations P1and P2closest to the connector210). For example, in various embodiments, the feedback lines235and245may be configured at the end parts of the connector210to which the power lines275and285are connected, and may be connected to the voltage compensation circuit220. According to one embodiment, the electronic device101may identify a voltage drop of a voltage supplied to an external device connected to the connector210by detecting feedback on the voltage supplied to the external device at the end part of the connector210using the voltage compensation circuit220, and may determine at least one external device or connector in which the voltage drop occurs. According to one embodiment, the electronic device101may identify a voltage drop of a voltage supplied to a plurality of external devices connected to the connector210by detecting feedback at the end part of the connector210using the voltage compensation circuit220, and may determine an external device in which a great voltage drop occurs among the plurality of external devices.

In one embodiment, the electronic device101(e.g., the switch controller250or the power supply device270) may determine a compensation value (or compensation voltage) for compensating for a voltage drop for an external device based on a degree of the voltage drop, and may compensate for the voltage drop by compensating for (e.g., boosting) a supply voltage based on the determined compensation value. In one embodiment, when a difference between the voltage drops of a plurality of external devices is great, the electronic device101(e.g., the switch controller250or the power supply device270) may determine a compensation value based on an external device having a smaller voltage drop (or supply voltage for an external device). According to one embodiment, the electronic device101(e.g., the switch controller450) may identify feedback on a boosted voltage by a compensation value, may drop the compensation value to a proper value when the boosted voltage (e.g., compensated voltage) is higher than the reference voltage (or given voltage) of a supply voltage for an external device, and may provide the proper voltage.

According to one embodiment, at least some of the functions of the voltage compensation circuit220(e.g., the switch controller250) may be performed by another control circuit (e.g., the processor120inFIG. 1or the control circuit260(e.g., the power supply device270or the charging circuit280)).

In one embodiment,FIG. 2illustrates an example in which the voltage compensation circuit220has been configured independently of a control circuit (e.g., the power supply device270), but various embodiments are not limited thereto. Various design changes are possible. For example, as illustrated as an element290, at least some (e.g., the switch controller250) of or the entire voltage compensation circuit220may be configured to be included in the power supply device270.

In one embodiment,FIG. 2illustrates two feedback line switches (i.e., the first feedback line switch230and the second feedback line switch240) in accordance with the first connector211and the first power line275connected to the first connector211, and the second connector213and the second power line285connected to the second connector213, but various embodiments are not limited thereto. Various design changes are possible. For example, if the electronic device101includes one connector and one power line connected to the one connector, the electronic device101may be configured to include one feedback line coming into contact with the one power line and one feedback line switch for switching the connection of the one feedback line.

In one embodiment, the control circuit260(e.g., the power management module188inFIG. 1) may manage power supplied to the electronic device101and/or an external device, and may manage power received from the external device. For example, the control circuit260may have a charger function for charging a battery (e.g., the battery189inFIG. 1) with an input power source from an external device, a function for communication (e.g., USB battery charging communication, USB power delivery (PD) communication, adaptive fast charging (AFC) communication and/or quick charge (QC) communication) with an external device (e.g., external power device) connected to the connector210(e.g., the first connector211and/or the second connector213), a function for supplying necessary power to a system (or electronic part) and supplying a power source suitable for a voltage level necessary for each electronic part and/or a function for supplying power to an external device in a power Tx mode. According to one embodiment, the control circuit260may include the power supply device270and a charging circuit280.

The power supply device270according to one embodiment may be a device (e.g., power supply unit (PSU) for supplying a stable power source to an external device connected through the connector210. The power supply device270may function to supply a power source (e.g., given voltage) suitable for each external device so that the power source supplied from the electronic device101to the external device can be stably used in the external device, for example. According to one embodiment, the power supply device270may adjust a voltage to a required level while forming (or connecting) or releasing (or blocking) a path for power supply using a switch (e.g., the first transmission switch271or the second transmission switch273). For example, the power supply device270may supply a power source to an external device connected to the first connector211based on the on/off (or open/close) of the first transmission switch271between the first connector211and the power supply device270. For another example, the power supply device270may supply a power source to an external device connected to the second connector213based on the on/off (or open/close) of the second transmission switch273between the second connector213and the power supply device270. The power supply device270according to one embodiment may function to constantly maintain a current by controlling power supplied to an external device, for example. For example, when a drop of a supply voltage supplied to an external device occurs, the power supply device270may supply a power source (e.g., given voltage) to the external device based on a voltage (e.g., boosted voltage) compensated based on a voltage compensation.

According to one embodiment, the first transmission switch271and the second transmission switch273may include a switch for the connection or blocking of the transmission path B between the power supply device270and an external device connected through the connector210. For example, each of the first transmission switch271and the second transmission switch273may include an MOSFET switch, but is not limited thereto. Each of the first transmission switch271and the second transmission switch273may be implemented by various switches (e.g., MESFET switch or MISFET switch).

The charging circuit280according to one embodiment may charge the battery (e.g., the battery189inFIG. 1) of the electronic device101using power supplied from an external device with respect to the electronic device101. According to one embodiment, the charging circuit280may select a charging method (e.g., normal charge or quick charge) based on at least some of the type (e.g., power adaptor or USB charger) of an external device, the amount of power which may be supplied from an external device or the attributes of the battery, and may charge the battery using the selected charging method. According to one embodiment, the charging circuit280may adjust power of an external device or the battery to a voltage or current level suitable for each element of each of elements (or electronic part or system) included in the electronic device101, and may output the adjusted voltage or current.

According to various embodiments, the control circuit260may determine a voltage compensation associated with an external device at least based on feedback (e.g., actual supply voltage) detected through the feedback lines235and245using the power supply device270and/or the charging circuit280. For example, the control circuit260may form the contact points P1and P2with the power lines275and285at locations closest to the connector210to which an external device has been connected (e.g., the locations of the contact points P1and P2inFIG. 2), may detect feedback on a supply voltage supplied to the external device at the contact points P1and P2(e.g., locations closest to the connector210) of the feedback lines235and245, and may compare voltages different depending on a load of the detected feedback (e.g., a difference between a given voltage and an actual supply voltage). The control circuit260may determine a compensation voltage for the external device based on a result of the comparison. According to one embodiment, at least some of the functions of the control circuit260may be performed by an external controller (e.g., the processor120inFIG. 1, the switch controller250of the voltage compensation circuit220or the charging circuit280).

Referring toFIG. 2, the electronic device101according to various embodiments may include one or more connectors210for a connection with an external device, and may be supplied with a power source from an external device connected through the connectors210or may supply a power source to an external device by the power supply device270.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG. 2, in the electronic device101, several external devices may be connected to one power supply device270. A power line may be connected up to the inside of the electronic device101(e.g., from the power supply device270to a long distance (e.g., the connector210exposed to the outside of the electronic device101). According to various embodiments, in the power line, the feedback lines235and245may be connected with the power supply device270from locations (e.g., the locations of the contact points P1and P2) closest to the connector210. A drop of a supply voltage for an external device can be prevented based on feedback using the feedback lines235and245. According to various embodiments, if a plurality of external devices is connected through the first connector211and the second connector213, the power supply device270may operate to compare voltages different depending on loads of the feedback lines235and245, determine a voltage compensation for at least one external device, and supply a power source based on the determined compensation voltage. A voltage compensation circuit and an operation thereof according to various embodiments are described below.

FIG. 3Ais a diagram schematically illustrating an example in which feedback lines are designed in the electronic device101according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3Bis a diagram schematically illustrating another example in which feedback lines are designed in the electronic device101according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS. 3A and 3B, the same reference numeral may be used for similar or related elements.

FIGS. 3A and 3Bmay illustrate examples in which the electronic device101includes two outside connectors320(e.g., first outside connector321and second outside connector323) for a connection with an external device. According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may include two pairs of inside connectors310A and310B (or two pairs of nodes) (e.g., the first connector310A on the outside within the electronic device101and the second connector310B on the inside within the electronic device101) electrically connected to the two outside connectors320capable of being connected to an external device, respectively. For example, the two pairs of inside connectors310A and310B may be configured with two pairs of connectors (e.g., a pair of a connector311on the outside and a connector315on the inside and a pair of a connector313on the outside and a connector317on the inside, which are clustered). The two pairs of connectors may be formed on the outside (or on the outer side) (e.g., location adjacent to the outside connector320) and on the inside (or on the inner side) (e.g., location adjacent to a power supply device370), respectively. In one embodiment, the two pairs of connectors may be formed on both ends of a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)360(e.g., a first FPCB361and a second FPCB363), respectively. For example, one pair of connectors311and315may be formed at both ends of the first FPCB361and electrically connected. The other pair of connectors313and317may be formed at both ends of the second FPCB363and electrically connected.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may include a printed circuit board (PCB) in which various electronic parts are disposed, for supporting and electrically connecting (or coupling) the electronic parts. According to various embodiments, as schematically illustrated inFIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device101may include a first PCB390(e.g., main PCB), a battery393(or battery mounting space), and a second PCB380(e.g., connector PCB). In one embodiment, inFIGS. 3A and 3B, the second PCB380has been illustrated as being separated from the first PCB390, but various embodiments are not limited thereto. The second PCB380may be formed as a structure included in (e.g., integrated into) the first PCB390.

According to various embodiments, in the inside connectors310A and310B, the first connector310A positioned at a location adjacent to the outside connector320may be electrically connected (or coupled) to the outside connector320through the second PCB380(e.g., connector PCB). The second connector310B positioned at a location adjacent to the power supply device370may be electrically connected (or coupled) to the power supply device370through the first PCB390(e.g., main PCB). According to various embodiments, the FPCB360may function to electrically connect the second connector310B of the first PCB390and the first connector310A of the second PCB380.

According to various embodiments, the FPCB360include (or may be wired to) a power line330and a feedback line350. According to one embodiment, in the electronic device101, the power line330and feedback line350, having a long length and connected to the outside connector320, may be wired through the inside connectors310A and310B and the FPCB360. One end of the feedback line350may be brought into contact at a location closest to the outside connector320or the outside connector320in the power line330. The other end of the feedback line350may be wired to be connected to the power supply device370.

According to various embodiments, one power line330(e.g., a first power line331and a second power line333) may be branched from the front end of the second connector310B. The branched power lines330(e.g., the first power line331and the second power line333) may be connected to the outside connector320through the first FPCB361and the second FPCB363, respectively. For example, the electronic device101may include the power line330(e.g., the first power line331and the second power line333), which has a long length and is extended from the power supply device370and connected to the outside connector320(e.g., the first outside connector321and the second outside connector323).

According to various embodiments, as in the example ofFIG. 3A, in the electronic device101, the feedback line350(e.g., a first feedback line351and a second feedback line353) may be extended from a voltage compensation circuit340through the inside connectors310A and310B and the FPCB360, and may be wired (or connected) to come into contact with the outside connector320or the power line330at a location closest to the outside connector320. According to various embodiments, in the electronic device101, as in the example ofFIG. 3B, the feedback line350may be extended from the power supply device370, including the voltage compensation circuit340, through the inside connectors310A and310B and the FPCB360, and may be wired (or connected) to come into contact with the outside connector320or the power line330at a location closest to the outside connector320.

According to various embodiments, the feedback line350(e.g., the first feedback line351and the second feedback line353) may be connected (or come into contact with) the power line330at a location closest to each of the first outside connector321and the second outside connector323to which an external device is connected (e.g., the dead end (or end) of the outside connector320to which an external device is connected or a location closest to the outside connector320(e.g., an end toward the outside in the power line330or a location closest thereto). For example, in the electronic device101, a contact point for detecting feedback may be formed at a location where a voltage (e.g., actual supply voltage) right before a voltage is transmitted to an external device may be detected in the feedback line for feedback on a voltage supplied to the external device.

According to various embodiments, the inside power line and the outside power line, and the inside feedback line and the outside feedback line have been illustrated based on the second connector310B, but various embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, in various embodiments, the inside power line and the outside power line may be wired as a connected power supply line (or connected (or extended) from the power supply device370to the outside connector320). In various embodiments, the inside feedback line and the outside feedback line may be wired as a connected power (or feedback) detection line (or connected (or extended) from the power supply device370to the outside connector320).

According to various embodiments, the feedback line350for detecting feedback on a supply voltage supplied from the dead end of the outside connector320to an external device may be connected to the electronic device101. According to various embodiments, the feedback line350may be brought into contact at one end of the power line330(e.g., one end connected to the outside connector320, for example, a location closest to the outside connector320). In various embodiments, the feedback line350may be configured at the dead end of the outside connector320to which the power line is connected, and may be connected to the voltage compensation circuit340(or the power supply device370including the voltage compensation circuit340). According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may identify a more accurate voltage drop of a voltage supplied to an external device connected to the outside connector320by detecting feedback on the voltage supplied to the external device at the dead end of the outside connector320using the voltage compensation circuit340(or the power supply device370including the voltage compensation circuit340).

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101is designed to check feedback at the end of the outside connector320or a location closest to the outside connector320based on the power line330having a relatively long physical distance (e.g., a distance from the power supply device370to the outside connector320for a connection with an external device) without checking the feedback at a distance relatively (or comparatively) close to the power supply device370. Accordingly, a voltage compensation for a great voltage drop at a long physical distance can be accurately provided. According to one embodiment, the power line330may be wired from the power supply device370to the two power lines, and it may provide a power source to the plurality of outside connectors320, may detect feedback on each of the outside connectors320, and may provide a voltage compensation. According to one embodiment, the power line330may be wired from the power supply device370to one power line, and the one power line may be branched from the second connector310B. Accordingly, the power line330may be wired to transmit a power source to the plurality of outside connectors320, may detect feedback on each of the outside connectors320, and may provide a voltage compensation. According to various embodiments, a voltage compensation can be provided when an external device is connected to the outside connector320(e.g., any one of the first outside connector321or the second outside connector323) or an external device is connected to the outside connector320(e.g., each of the first outside connector321and the second outside connector323) by one power source line.

FIG. 4is a diagram illustrating an example in which a voltage compensation circuit is configured in the electronic device101according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 4, it may illustrate an example of a voltage compensation method using a voltage compensation circuit when one power supply device470supplies a power source to a plurality of external devices. For example, inFIG. 4, a first external device (not illustrated) and a second external device (not illustrated) may be connected to a connector410(e.g., a first connector411and a second connector413). Each of the first external device and the second external device may be a power consumption device. According to one embodiment, the electronic device101may supply a power source to the first external device and the second external device through the power supply device470. The voltage compensation circuit may detect feedback (e.g., first feedback or second feedback) on the supply voltage for each of the first external device and the second external device, and may compensate for a voltage.

According to one embodiment, elements (e.g., the connector410, a voltage compensation circuit (e.g., a first feedback line switch430, a second feedback line switch440, and a switch controller450), power switches471,473,481, and483, the power supply device470, and charging circuits480) illustrated inFIG. 4may correspond to respective elements (e.g., the connector210, the voltage compensation circuit220(e.g., the first feedback line switch230, the second feedback line switch240, and the switch controller250), the control circuit260, the power switches271,273,281, and283, the power supply device270, and the charging circuit280), such as those described in the portion described with reference toFIG. 2, and a detailed description of contents similar to the aforementioned operation is omitted.

According to one embodiment, although schematically illustrated inFIG. 4, the connector410may be positioned in the second PCB380(e.g., connector PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. One end of each of feedback lines435and445may come into contact with a power line in the connector410or at each of locations P1and P2closest to the connector410on the second PCB380. The other end of each of the feedback lines435and445may be connected to the power supply device470through the voltage compensation circuit. For example, the contact point locations P1and P2of the feedback lines435and445for feedback detection may be designed to be closest to the connector410. In one embodiment, the voltage compensation circuit (e.g., the first feedback line switch430, the second feedback line switch440, the switch controller450), the power switch (e.g., the first transmission switch471, the second transmission switch473, the first reception switch481, and the second reception switch483), the power supply device470, and the charging circuits480may be designed in the first PCB390(e.g., the main PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B.

Referring toFIG. 4, the electronic device101may include the voltage compensation circuit, including a feedback line switch (e.g., the first feedback line switch430and the second feedback line switch440) capable of controlling the connection of the feedback lines435and445to respective power lines475and485and the switch controller450capable of controlling the switching (e.g., open/close) of the feedback line switches430and440. For example, the electronic device101may include the voltage compensation circuit between the connector410and the power supply device470. The feedback lines435and445may be configured at the dead ends of the connector410(e.g., the first connector411and the second connector413) and connected to the power supply device470.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device101may identify a voltage drop of a voltage supplied to an external device connected to the connector410by detecting a feedback at the dead end of the connector410(e.g., any one of the first connector411or the second connector413) to which external device has been connected using the voltage compensation circuit. According to another embodiment, the electronic device101may identify a voltage drop of a voltage supplied to each of a plurality of external devices connected to the connector410by detecting feedback at the dead end of the connector410(e.g., each of the first connector411and the second connector413) to which the external devices have been connected using the voltage compensation circuit, and may identify an external device that belongs to the plurality of external devices and that has a greater voltage drop.

In one embodiment, the electronic device101(e.g., the switch controller450) may determine a compensation value (or compensation voltage) for compensating for a voltage drop for an external device based on a degree of the voltage drop, and may compensate for the voltage drop by compensating for (e.g., boosting) a supply voltage based on the determined compensation value. In one embodiment, when a voltage drop between a plurality of external devices is great, the electronic device101may determine a compensation value based on an external device having a smaller voltage drop.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device101(e.g., the switch controller450) may check feedback on a boosted voltage by a compensation value, may drop the compensation value to a proper value when the boosted voltage is higher than the reference voltage (or given voltage) of a supply voltage for any one external device, and may provide the dropped voltage. According to various embodiments, at least some of the functions of the voltage compensation circuit (e.g., the switch controller450) may be performed by another control circuit (e.g., the processor120inFIG. 1, or the charging circuit280).

Referring toFIG. 4, power lines (e.g., the first power line475and the second power line485) for reception paths may be wired between the first connector411and the charging circuits480and between the second connector413and the charging circuits480, respectively. Power lines (e.g., the first power line475and the second power line485) for transmission paths may be wired between the first connector411and the power supply device470and between the second connector413and the power supply device470, respectively.

In one embodiment, the power lines for the transmission paths and the power lines for the reception paths have been divided and illustrated for convenience of description, but the power line for the transmission path and the power line for the reception path may be designed as a power line for a contact point in order to enable bidirectional power transmission (or transmission and reception) through one power line. For example, the wiring of a power line for receiving or supplying power using one power supply device470may be formed as a single path by integrating the power supply device470and the charging circuit480or may be formed as paths for the power supply device470and the charging circuit480, respectively.

According to one embodiment, if one power line is used in one power supply device470, the other path may be blocked when one path for any one of input and output is determined. For example, the electronic device101may not perform an output operation (e.g., power supply) in an input operation (e.g., power reception) of forming a path related to input (e.g., reception path) using a switch, and may not perform an input operation in an output operation of forming a path related to output(e.g., transmission path) using a switch.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device101may provide a voltage compensation to any one of or all outside connectors410when performing an output operation. In one embodiment, a power line for a reception path may be a power input line for transmitting (or bypassing) a power source from an external device (e.g., external power device) to the charging circuit480(or system). In one embodiment, a power line for a transmission path may be a power supply line for supplying power to an external device (e.g., power consumption device).

According to one embodiment, the power line475or485may operate as a path in a transmission mode (or Tx mode) or a reception mode (or Rx mode) depending on the type of external device (e.g., external power device or power consumption device). A power switch (e.g., the first or second transmission switch471or473and the first or second reception switch481or483) for the power line475or485may be configured.

For example, the electronic device101may connect a power line to the charging circuit480by on (or close)-controlling a reception switch (e.g., the first reception switch481or the second reception switch483in a path to which an external power device has been connected) in the Rx mode (e.g., at least one power line475or485operates as a power input line), and may release a connection between the power line and the power supply device470by off (or open)-controlling a transmission switch (e.g., the first transmission switch471or the second transmission switch473in the path to which an external power device has been connected).

For another example, the electronic device101may connect a power line to the power supply device470by on (or close)-controlling a transmission switch (e.g., the first transmission switch471and/or the second transmission switch473in a path to which a power consumption device has been connected) in the Tx mode (e.g., at least one power line475or485operates as a power supply line, and may release a connection with the charging circuit480by off (or open)-controlling a reception switch (e.g., the first reception switch481and/or the second reception switch483in the path to which a power consumption device has been connected).

According to one embodiment, a first voltage input from an external device in the Rx mode may include a voltage higher than a second voltage supplied to an external device in the Tx mode. Accordingly, when the first voltage is input to the power supply device470, the power supply device470may be damaged. In order to prevent this problem, the transmission switches471and473may be configured in the transmission paths so that a voltage from an external device to the power supply device470is blocked by making off the transmission switches471and473in the Rx mode.

According to various embodiments, feedback lines (e.g., the first feedback line435and the second feedback line445) may be wired between the first connector411and the power supply device470and between the second connector413and the power supply device470, respectively. According to various embodiments, one end of each of the feedback lines435and445may come into contact with each of the power lines475and485at each of the locations P1and P2closest to the connector410(e.g., the end of the connector410(or the end of the power line connected to the connector410) or a location closest to the connector410). The other end of each of the feedback lines435and445may be connected to the power supply device470through the voltage compensation circuit.

In one embodiment, a feedback line (e.g., the first feedback line435or the second feedback line445) may be a power (or feedback) detection line for detecting feedback associated with a power source supplied to an external device in a power line connected to the connector410(e.g., the first connector411or the second connector413) (e.g., at the end of the first power line475or the second power line485(e.g., a location closest to the connector410)) in the Tx mode in which a power source is supplied from the power supply device470to an external device.

According to one embodiment, the feedback line435,445may be connected to the power supply device470for feedback in the Tx mode, and a connection between the feedback line435,445and the power supply device470may be released in the Rx mode. For example, the feedback line435,445may include a feedback line switch (e.g., the first feedback line switch430, the second feedback line switch440). When a power source is supplied from the power supply device470to an external device connected to the connector410in the Tx mode, the feedback line435,445may form (or connect) a feedback path with the power supply device470by making on (or closing) the feedback line switch430,440. For example, the feedback line435,445may be configured to make on (or close) the feedback line switch430,440of the feedback line435,445when operating in the Tx mode in the path in which an external device has been connected and to make off (or open) the feedback line switch430,440of the feedback line435,445when operating in the Rx mode in the path in which an external device has been connected.

According to various embodiments, the feedback line435,445may be brought into contact at one end P1, P2of the power line475,485(e.g., an end connected to the connector410, for example, a location closest to the connector410). A voltage compensation circuit, including the feedback line switch430,440and the switch controller450, may be configured at the feedback line435,445. A more accurate voltage compensation value can be calculated by detecting feedback at the end of the power line475,485having a relatively long physical distance.

According to one embodiment, a case where external devices (e.g., power consumption devices) are connected to the electronic device101through the first connector411and the second connector413, respectively, and the power supply device470supplies power sources to the respective external devices connected to the first connector411and the second connector413may be assumed. For example, the case may correspond to a case where the electronic device101operates in the Tx mode in which the first power line475and the second power line485are used as power supply lines.

In one embodiment, the switch controller450may connect the feedback lines435and445by on (or close)-controlling the first feedback line switch430and the second feedback line switch440, respectively, in the Tx mode. According to one embodiment, when both the feedback line switches430and440operate (e.g., they are turned on). the switch controller450may compare a first voltage, detected through the first feedback line435, with a second voltage detected through the second feedback line445, and may connect (or transmit) a low voltage value to the power supply device470.

According to one embodiment, a case where an external device (e.g., power consumption device) is connected to the electronic device101through the first connector411, an external device is not connected to the second connector413, and the power supply device470supplies a power source to the external device connected to the first connector411may be assumed. For example, the case may correspond to a case where the electronic device101operates in the Tx mode in which the first power line475is used as a power supply line.

In one embodiment, the switch controller450may on (or close)-control the first feedback line switch430for the connection of the first feedback line435brought into contact with the first power line475in the Tx mode. In one embodiment, the switch controller450may release a connection with the second feedback line445by off (or open)-controlling the second feedback line switch440. According to one embodiment, the switch controller450may transmit, to the power supply device470, feedback (e.g., feedback voltage) detected through the first feedback line435. In one embodiment, when a feedback voltage is lower than a given voltage (e.g., a supply voltage designated to a connected external device), the power supply device470may compensate for (or boost) the given voltage and supply the compensated (or boosted) voltage to the external device.

According to one embodiment, a case where a first external device (e.g., external power device) is connected to the electronic device101through the first connector411and a second external device (e.g., power consumption device) is connected to the electronic device101through the second connector413may be assumed. For example, the case may correspond to a case where the electronic device101performs an Rx mode operation using the first power line475as a power input line and an Tx mode operation using the second power line485as a power supply line at the same time.

In one embodiment, the switch controller450may on (or close)-control the second feedback line switch440for a connection with the second feedback line445brought into contact with the second power line485in the Tx mode. In one embodiment, the switch controller450may release a connection with the first feedback line435by off (or open)-controlling the first feedback line switch430. According to one embodiment, the switch controller450may transmit, to the power supply device470, feedback (e.g., feedback voltage) detected through the second feedback line445. In one embodiment, when a feedback voltage is lower than a given voltage (e.g., a supply voltage designated to a connected external device), the power supply device470may supply to a given voltage to an external device by compensating for (or boosting) the given voltage.

In one embodiment, the electronic device101may connect the charging circuit480and the first power line475in the Rx mode by making on (or closing) the first reception switch481, and may release a connection between the first power line475and the power supply device470by making off (or opening) the first transmission switch471. For example, the electronic device101may block a voltage input from an external device to the power supply device470by making off (or closing) the first transmission switch471and the first feedback line switch430in a path (e.g., the first power line475) associated with the Rx mode.

In one embodiment, if the electronic device101supports a unidirectional power supply not a bidirectional power supply, the power switches481and483in the reception path and the power switches471and473in the transmission path may be omitted.

FIG. 5is a diagram illustrating another example in which a voltage compensation circuit is configured in the electronic device101according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 5, according to one embodiment, elements (e.g., a connector510(e.g., a first connector511and a second connector513), voltage compensation circuits (e.g., a first feedback line switch530and a second feedback line switch540), power switches571,573,581, and583, a power supply device570, and charging circuits580) illustrated inFIG. 5may correspond to elements (e.g., the connector210, the voltage compensation circuit220(e.g., the first feedback line switch230, the second feedback line switch240, and the switch controller250), the control circuit260, the power switches271,273,281, and283, the power supply device270, and the charging circuit280), such as those described in the portion described with reference toFIGS. 2 and 4, and a detailed description of contents similar to the aforementioned operation is omitted.

According to one embodiment, although schematically illustrated inFIG. 5, the connector510may be positioned in the second PCB380(e.g., connector PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. One end of a feedback line535,545may be brought into contact with the connector510or a power line at a location P1, P2closest to the connector510on the second PCB380. The other end of the feedback line535,545may be connected to the power supply device570through a feedback line switch (e.g., the first feedback line switch530, the second feedback line switch540). For example, the contact point locations P1and P2of the feedback lines535and545for feedback detection may be designed to be closest to the connector510. In one embodiment, voltage compensation circuits (e.g., the first feedback line switch530, the second feedback line switch540), power switches (e.g., the first transmission switch571, the second transmission switch573, the first reception switch581, and the second reception switch583), the power supply device570, and the charging circuits580may be designed in the first PCB390(e.g., main PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B.

FIG. 5illustrate an example of a circuit configuration in which at least some (e.g., the switch controller450inFIG. 4) of the voltage compensation circuits is included in (e.g., integrated into) the power supply device570in a voltage compensation circuit configuration, such as that illustrated inFIG. 4. An example in which the power supply device570supplies a power source to each of external devices connected to the first connector511and the second connector513is described with reference toFIG. 5.

According to various embodiments, if the switch controller450is included in the power supply device570and the power supply device570supplies power sources to external devices (e.g., a first external device connected to the first connector511and a second external device connected to the second connector513) as described in the portion described with reference toFIG. 4, the electronic device101may make on (or close) the first feedback line switch530of the first feedback line535and the second feedback line switch540of the second feedback line545. According to one embodiment, the first feedback line535and the second feedback line545may be directly connected to the power supply device570through the feedback line switches530and540, respectively. In one embodiment, first feedback (or a first feedback voltage) passing through the first feedback line switch530and second feedback (or a second feedback voltage) passing through the second feedback line switch540may be transmitted to the power supply device570.

According to one embodiment, as described in the portion described with reference toFIG. 4, when the power supply device570supplies a power source to one external device (e.g., an external device connected to the first connector511or the second connector513), the power supply device570may detect a first voltage (e.g., a voltage less than a given reference voltage) or detect a related signal as first feedback or second feedback at the location P1or P2close to the connector510through the first feedback line535or the second feedback line545.

In one embodiment, when a first voltage or a related signal is detected as first feedback or second feedback, the power supply device570may boost a voltage output to an external device. For example, when a relatively low feedback voltage is detected, the power supply device570may supply a first given voltage to an external device through boosting (e.g., first voltage compensation). According to one embodiment, after voltage boosting, the power supply device570may detect an output voltage, passing through the power line575or585, or an output voltage at the location P1or P2close to the connector510as first feedback or second feedback for a second voltage (e.g., a voltage equal to or higher than a given reference voltage or a voltage higher than a first voltage).

In one embodiment, when a relatively high feedback voltage is detected, the power supply device570may supply a second given voltage to an external device through the adjustment of the amount of boosting or the drop (e.g., second voltage compensation) of the amount of a voltage boosted based on a low voltage. In one embodiment, a second given voltage may include a voltage lower than a first given voltage.

According to various embodiments, the voltage boosting operation of the power supply device570may be determined through a separate control circuit (e.g., the processor120inFIG. 1), a voltage compensation circuit (e.g., the voltage compensation circuit220inFIG. 2) or the power supply device570including the voltage compensation circuit220.

In one embodiment, the electronic device101may connect the first feedback line switch530and the second feedback line switch540to the feedback lines535and545, respectively, by on (or close)-controlling the first feedback line switch530and the second feedback line switch540in the Tx mode. According to one embodiment, when both the feedback line switches530and540operate (e.g., when they are turned on), the power supply device570may directly compare a first feedback voltage, detected through the first feedback line535, with a second feedback voltage detected through the second feedback line545, and may compensate for (e.g., boost) a voltage based on a lower feedback voltage so that a maximum of a given voltage is supplied to an external device (or a voltage drop is compensated for). According to one embodiment, a voltage compensation (e.g., boosting) may be performed based on a relatively lower feedback voltage. A voltage compensation (e.g., adjust the amount of boosting and/or relatively lower (or drop) the amount of a voltage boosted based on a low voltage) may be performed based on a relatively higher feedback voltage.

FIG. 6is a diagram illustrating another example in which a voltage compensation circuit is configured in the electronic device101according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 6, according to one embodiment, elements (e.g., a connector610(e.g., a first connector611and a second connector613), power switches671,673,681, and683, a power supply device670, and charging circuits680) illustrated inFIG. 6may correspond to elements (e.g., the connector210, the voltage compensation circuit220(e.g., the first feedback line switch230, the second feedback line switch240, and the switch controller250), the control circuit260, the power switches271,273,281, and283, the power supply device270, and the charging circuit280), such as those described in the portion described with reference to,FIG. 2andFIG. 4, and a detailed description of contents similar to the aforementioned operation is omitted.

According to one embodiment, although schematically illustrated inFIG. 6, the connector610may be positioned in the second PCB380(e.g., connector PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. One end of a feedback line635,645may be brought into contact with the connector610or a power line at a location P1, P2closest to the connector610on the second PCB380. The other end of the feedback line635,645may be connected to the power supply device670. For example, the contact point locations P1and P2of the feedback lines635and645for feedback detection may be designed to be closest to the connector610. In one embodiment, power switches (e.g., the first transmission switch671, the second transmission switch673, the first reception switch681, and the second reception switch683), the power supply device670, and the charging circuits680may be designed in the first PCB390(e.g., main PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. A voltage compensation circuit may be included in the power supply device670.

FIG. 6may illustrate an example of a circuit configuration in which all voltage compensation circuits (e.g., the first feedback line switch430, the second feedback line switch440, and the switch controller450inFIG. 4) are included in (or integrated into) the power supply device670in a voltage compensation circuit configuration such as that illustrated inFIG. 4. An example in which the power supply device670supplies power sources to external devices connected to the first connector611and the second connector613, respectively, is schematically described with reference toFIG. 6.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may include the power supply device670, including a voltage compensation circuit or a function circuit corresponding to the voltage compensation circuit. The power supply device670may include a function capable of making on/off feedback path connections according to the first feedback line635and the second feedback line645. According to one embodiment, the first feedback line635and the second feedback line645may be directly connected to the power supply device670. In one embodiment, the electronic device101may on-control the feedback path connections within the power supply device670so that the first feedback line635and the second feedback line645are connected in the Tx mode.

According to one embodiment, when a feedback path connection between the first feedback line635and the second feedback line645becomes on/off and a feedback path for the first feedback line635and the second feedback line645becomes on, the power supply device670may compare a first feedback voltage, detected through the first feedback line635, with a second feedback voltage detected through the second feedback line645, and may compensate for (e.g., boost) a voltage based on a lower feedback voltage so that a maximum of a given voltage is supplied to an external device (or a voltage drop is compensated for).

According to one embodiment, when the power supply device670supplies a power source to one external device (e.g., an external device connected to the first connector611or the second connector613), the power supply device670may detect a first voltage (e.g., a voltage less than a given reference voltage) or detect a related signal as first feedback or second feedback through the first feedback line635or the second feedback line645at a location P1or P2close to the connector610.

In one embodiment, when a first voltage or related signal is detected as first feedback or second feedback, the power supply device670may boost a voltage output to an external device. According to one embodiment, after voltage boosting, the power supply device670may detect an output voltage passing through a power line or an output voltage at the location P1or P2close to the connector610as first feedback or second feedback for a second voltage (e.g., a voltage equal to or higher than a given reference voltage or a voltage higher than a first voltage). According to various embodiments, the voltage boosting operation of the power supply device670may be determined through the power supply device670, including a separate control circuit (e.g., the processor120inFIG. 1), a voltage compensation circuit (e.g., the voltage compensation circuit220inFIG. 2) or the voltage compensation circuit220.

FIG. 7is a diagram illustrating another example in which a voltage compensation circuit is configured in the electronic device101according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 7, according to one embodiment, elements (e.g., a connector710(e.g., a first connector711and a second connector713), power switches771,773,781, and783, a switch controller750, a power supply device770, and charging circuits780) illustrated inFIG. 7may correspond to elements (e.g., the connector210, the voltage compensation circuit220(e.g., the first feedback line switch230, the second feedback line switch240, and the switch controller250), the control circuit260, the power switches271,273,281, and283, the power supply device270, and the charging circuit280), such as those described in the portion described with reference toFIGS. 2 and 4, and a detailed description of contents similar to the aforementioned operation is omitted.

FIG. 7may illustrate an example of a circuit configuration for feedback detection, wherein some (e.g., the switch controller450inFIG. 4) of voltage compensation circuits are disposed (or designed) between the transmission switches771and773and the power supply device770and the transmission switches771and773are disposed to be closest to the connector710(e.g., the first connector711and the second connector713) in a voltage compensation circuit configuration, such as that illustrated inFIG. 4.

According to one embodiment, although schematically illustrated inFIG. 7, the connector710and a transmission switch (e.g., the first transmission switch771or the second transmission switch773) may be positioned in the second PCB380(e.g., connector PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. One end of each of feedback lines735and745may be brought into contact with a power line within each of the transmission switches771and773or each of locations P1and P2closest to each of the transmission switches771and773. The other end of each of the feedback lines735and745may be connected to the power supply device770through the switch controller750. For example, the contact point locations P1and P2of the feedback lines735and745for feedback detection may be designed to be closest to the connector710.

In one embodiment, reception switches (e.g., the first reception switch781and the second reception switch783), the switch controller750, the power supply device770, and the charging circuit780may be designed in the first PCB390(e.g., main PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. An example in which the power supply device770supplies power sources to external devices connected to the first connector711and the second connector713, respectively is schematically described with reference toFIG. 7.

According to various embodiments, inFIG. 7, the configuration of a feedback line switch for a connection with a feedback line may be omitted, and feedback lines (e.g., the first feedback line735and the second feedback line745) may be wired to be closest to the transmission switches771and773.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device101may form feedback paths by making on the transmission switches771and773so that the first feedback line735and the second feedback line745are connected to the respective power lines in the Tx mode. According to one embodiment, when both the feedback paths of the first feedback line735and the second feedback line745become on, the switch controller750may compare a first feedback voltage, detected through the first feedback line735, with a second feedback voltage detected through the second feedback line745, and may connect (or transmit) a lower feedback voltage to the power supply device770. In one embodiment, the power supply device770may compensate for (e.g., boost) a voltage based on a received feedback voltage so that a maximum of a given voltage is supplied (or a voltage drop is compensated for) to an external device.

According to one embodiment, when the power supply device770supplies a power source to one external device (e.g., an external device connected to the first connector711or the second connector713), the power supply device770may detect a first voltage (e.g., a voltage less than a given reference voltage) as first feedback or second feedback through the first feedback line735or the second feedback line745of the location P1or P2close to the connector710. In one embodiment, when detecting the first voltage as the first feedback or the second feedback, the power supply device770may boost a voltage output to the external device. According to one embodiment, after the voltage boosting, the power supply device770may detect an output voltage passing through a power line or an output voltage at the location P1or P2close to the connector710as the first feedback or the second feedback for a second voltage (e.g., a voltage equal to or higher than a given reference voltage or a voltage higher than the first voltage).

According to various embodiments, the voltage boosting operation of the power supply device770may be determined through the power supply device770, including a separate control circuit (e.g., the processor120inFIG. 1), a voltage compensation circuit (e.g., the voltage compensation circuit220inFIG. 2) or the voltage compensation circuit220.

FIG. 8is a diagram illustrating another example in which a voltage compensation circuit is configured in the electronic device101according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 8, according to one embodiment, elements (e.g., a connector810, a voltage compensation circuit (e.g., a feedback line switch830), power switches840and850, a power supply device870, and a charging circuit880) illustrated inFIG. 8may correspond to elements (e.g., the connector210, the voltage compensation circuit220(e.g., the first feedback line switch230, the second feedback line switch240, and the switch controller250), the control circuit260, the power switches271,273,281, and283, the power supply device270, and the charging circuit280), such as those described in the portion described with reference toFIGS. 2 and 4, and a detailed description of contents similar to the aforementioned operation is omitted.

FIG. 8may illustrate an example in which the electronic device101includes one connector810and one power supply device870supplies a power source to an external device connected to the connector810.FIG. 8may illustrate an example of a circuit configuration in which at least some (e.g., the switch controller450inFIG. 4) of a voltage compensation circuit is included in (e.g., integrated into) the power supply device870in a voltage compensation circuit configuration, such as that illustrated inFIG. 4.

According to one embodiment, although schematically illustrated inFIG. 8, one end of each of the connector810and a feedback line835may be positioned in the second PCB380(e.g., connector PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. One end of the feedback line835may be brought into contact with a power line a location P closest to the connector810. The other end of the feedback line835may be connected to power supply device870through the feedback line switch830. For example, the contact point location P of the feedback line835for feedback detection may be designed to be closest to the connector810.

In one embodiment, the reception switch840, the transmission switch850, the power supply device870, and the charging circuit880may be designed in the first PCB390(e.g., main PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. In one embodiment, the power line and the feedback line835may be wired through the FPCB360, such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. An example in which the power supply device870supplies a power source to an external device connected to the connector810is schematically described with reference toFIG. 8.

According to various embodiments, if the switch controller450is included in the power supply device870and the power supply device870supplies a power source to an external device (e.g., an external device connected to the connector810) as described in the portion described with reference toFIG. 4, the electronic device101may make on (or close) the feedback line switch830of the feedback line835. According to one embodiment, the feedback line835may be connected to the power supply device870through the feedback line switch830. In one embodiment, feedback (or a feedback voltage) passing through the feedback line switch830may be transmitted to the power supply device870.

In one embodiment, the electronic device101may connect the feedback line switch830to the feedback line835by on (or close)-controlling the feedback line switch830in the Tx mode. According to one embodiment, when the feedback line switch830operates, the power supply device870may compensate for (e.g., boost) a voltage based on a feedback voltage detected through the feedback line835so that a maximum of a given voltage is supplied to an external device (or a voltage drop is compensated for).

FIG. 9is a diagram illustrating another example in which a voltage compensation circuit is configured in the electronic device101according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 9, according to one embodiment, elements (e.g., a connector910, power switches940and950, a power supply device970, and a charging circuit980) illustrated inFIG. 9may correspond to elements (e.g., the connector210, the voltage compensation circuit220(e.g., the first feedback line switch230, the second feedback line switch240, and the switch controller250), the control circuit260, the power switches271,273,281, and283, the power supply device270, and the charging circuit280), such as those described in the portion described with reference toFIGS. 2 and 4, and a detailed description of contents similar to the aforementioned operation is omitted.

FIG. 9may illustrate an example in which the electronic device101includes the one connector810and the one power supply device870supplies a power source to an external device connected to the connector810.FIG. 9may illustrate an example of a circuit configuration in which all voltage compensation circuits (e.g., the first feedback line switch430, the second feedback line switch440, and the switch controller450inFIG. 4) are included in (or integrated into) the power supply device970in a voltage compensation circuit configuration, such as that illustrated inFIG. 4.

According to one embodiment, although schematically illustrated inFIG. 9, the connector910and the transmission switch950may be disposed in the second PCB380(e.g., connector PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. One end of a feedback line935may be brought into contact with a power line within the transmission switch950or a location P closest to the transmission switch950. The other end of the feedback line935may be connected to the power supply device970. For example, the contact point location P of the feedback line935for feedback detection may be designed to be closest to the connector910. In one embodiment, the reception switch940, the power supply device970, and the charging circuit980may be designed in the first PCB390(e.g., main PCB), such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. In one embodiment, the power line and the feedback line935may be wired through the FPCB360, such as that illustrated inFIG. 3Aand/orFIG. 3B. An example in which the power supply device970supplies a power source to an external device connected to the connector910is schematically described with reference toFIG. 9.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may include a voltage compensation circuit or a function circuit, corresponding to the voltage compensation circuit, in the power supply device970. The power supply device970may include a function capable of making on/off a feedback path connection according to the feedback line935. According to one embodiment, a circuit for feedback detection may be configured by positioning the transmission switch950at a location closest to the connector910, omitting the configuration of a feedback line switch for the connection of the feedback line935, and positioning the feedback line935at a location closest to the transmission switch950.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device101may form a feedback path by making on the transmission switch950so that the feedback line935is connected to the power line in the Tx mode. According to one embodiment, when the feedback path of the feedback line935becomes on, the power supply device970may compensate for (e.g., boost) a voltage based on a feedback voltage detected through the feedback line935so that a maximum of a given voltage is supplied to an external device (or a voltage drop is compensated for).

The electronic device101according to various embodiments of the disclosure may include a power supply device (e.g., the power supply device270inFIG. 2), at least one connector (e.g., the connector210inFIG. 2) for a connection with an external device, a power line (e.g., the power line275,285inFIG. 2) wired between the power supply device and the connector, a feedback line (e.g., the feedback line235,245inFIG. 2) brought into contact with the power line at a location adjacent to the connector between the power supply device and the connector, a voltage compensation circuit (e.g., the voltage compensation circuit220inFIG. 2) detecting feedback on a supply voltage supplied to an external device at the location adjacent to the connector using the feedback line, and a control circuit (e.g., the control circuit260inFIG. 2or the processor120inFIG. 1) configured to control a compensation related to the supply voltage based on the detected feedback.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101includes a first connector (e.g., the first connector211inFIG. 2) and a second connector (e.g., the second connector213inFIG. 2). The voltage compensation circuit may include a first feedback line switch (e.g., the first feedback line switch230inFIG. 2) for the connection of a first feedback line (e.g., the first feedback line235inFIG. 2) associated with the first connector, a second feedback line switch (e.g., the second feedback line switch240inFIG. 2) for the connection of a second feedback line (e.g., the second feedback line245inFIG. 2) associated with the second connector, and a switch controller (e.g., the switch controller250inFIG. 2) configured to control the switching of the first feedback line switch and the second feedback line switch.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may be configured so that one end of the feedback line is brought into contact with the power line at a location closest to the connector and the other end of the feedback line is connected to the power supply device through the voltage compensation circuit.

According to various embodiments, the location closest to the connector may include the end of the connector or the location closest to the connector.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may include a first printed circuit board (PCB) (e.g., the first PCB390inFIG. 3A or 3B) including at least one of the power supply device, the voltage compensation circuit or the control circuit, a second PCB (e.g., the second PCB380inFIG. 3A or 3B) including the connector, and an FPCB (e.g., the FPCB360inFIG. 3A or 3B) for a connection between the first PCB and the second PCB. The FPCB may include the power line and the feedback line.

According to various embodiments, the connector may include at least one outside connector (e.g., the outside connector320inFIG. 3A or 3B) for a connection with an external device and at least one pair of inside connector (e.g., the inside connectors310A and310B inFIG. 3A or 3B) electrically connected to the outside connector and formed at both ends of the FPCB.

According to various embodiments, the inside connector may include a first connector (e.g., the first connector310A inFIG. 3A or 3B) positioned at a location adjacent to the outside connector on the second PCB and a second connector (e.g., the second connector310B inFIG. 3A or 3B) positioned at a location adjacent to the power supply device on the first PCB. The first connector of the second PCB and the second connector of the first PCB may be connected through the FPCB.

According to various embodiments, when the electronic device101supplies a voltage to a plurality of external devices based on the power supply device, the voltage compensation circuit may be configured to detect feedback on a supply voltage at the location closest to the connector.

According to various embodiments, when both the first feedback line switch and the second feedback line switch operate, the voltage compensation circuit may be configured to compare a first feedback voltage detected through the first feedback line with a second feedback voltage detected through the second feedback line.

According to various embodiments, the voltage compensation circuit may be configured to transmit, to the control circuit, a lower feedback voltage of the first feedback voltage and the second feedback voltage.

According to various embodiments, the control circuit may compensate for a voltage based on a relatively low feedback voltage, and may supply a given first voltage to the external device.

According to various embodiments, the control circuit may compensate for a voltage based on a relatively high feedback voltage, and may supply a given second voltage to the external device.

According to various embodiments, the control circuit may be configured to supply an external device with a given first voltage by performing a first voltage compensation based on a relatively low feedback voltage and to supply an external device with a given second voltage by performing a second voltage compensation based on a relatively high feedback voltage. The second voltage may include a voltage lower than the first voltage. The first voltage compensation may include boosting. The second voltage compensation may include at least one of the adjustment of the amount of boosting or the drop of the amount of a voltage boosted based on a low voltage.

According to various embodiments, the control circuit may be configured to check feedback on a compensated voltage based on the feedback voltage and to drop the compensated voltage when the compensated voltage is higher than a given voltage of any one external device.

According to various embodiments, the voltage compensation circuit may be configured to detect a voltage through the feedback line at a location closest to the connector in order to detect feedback on a supply voltage supplied to an external device connected to the connector.

According to various embodiments, the control circuit may be configured to boost a voltage output to the external device when a voltage less than a given reference voltage is detected based on the feedback on the supply voltage.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may be configured so that the power supply device includes at least some of the voltage compensation circuit.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may be configured so that the control circuit includes the voltage compensation circuit.

The electronic device101according to various embodiments of the disclosure may include a power supply device (e.g., the power supply device270inFIG. 2), at least one connector (e.g., the connector210inFIG. 2) for a connection with an external device, a power line (e.g., the power lines275and285inFIG. 2) wired between the power supply device and the at least one connector, a feedback line (e.g., the feedback lines235and245inFIG. 2) formed to come into contact with a power line at a location adjacent to the connector, a voltage compensation circuit (e.g., the voltage compensation circuit220inFIG. 2) for detecting feedback on a supply voltage supplied to the external device, and a control circuit (e.g., the control circuit260inFIG. 2or the processor120inFIG. 1). The control circuit may determine a voltage output by the power supply device based on a signal related to the supply voltage of the voltage compensation circuit.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101may include a first connector (e.g., the first connector211inFIG. 2) and a second connector (e.g., the second connector213inFIG. 2). The voltage compensation circuit may include a first feedback line switch (e.g., the first feedback line switch230inFIG. 2) for the connection of a first feedback line (e.g., the first feedback line235inFIG. 2) associated with the first connector and a second feedback line switch (e.g., the second feedback line switch240inFIG. 2) for the connection of a second feedback line (e.g., the second feedback line245inFIG. 2) associated with the second connector. A voltage is detected through the first feedback line or the second feedback line in order to detect feedback on a supply voltage supplied to an external device connected to the first connector or the second connector.

According to various embodiments, the voltage compensation circuit may include a switch controller (e.g., the switch controller250inFIG. 2) configured to control the switching of the first feedback line switch and the second feedback line switch. When a power source is supplied to the external device connected to the first connector or the second connector, the switch controller may control the first feedback line switch or the second feedback line switch in order to check the supply voltage through the first feedback line or the second feedback line.