Method and apparatus for using residual energy in a battery-powered computer
US6425087B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 28, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jul 23, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 28, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F1/28
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Methods and apparatus are described for providing a time-based warning indicating that the energy capacity of a primary energy source of a battery-powered computer has discharged to a low level, and using residual energy of the primary energy source to perform at least one pre-cutoff function. The time-based warning ensures that the warning is provided in a timely manner by overcoming problems caused by analog to digital converter voltage measurement accuracy limitations and flat battery operating voltage versus discharge curves. The primary energy source can be a rechargeable battery, which can also be the sole energy source for the computer. The battery provides power to operate the computer until the battery voltage discharges to the cutoff voltage. The methods and apparatus provide advantages because they reserve the residual energy in the battery to perform at least one pre-cutoff function within a first duration before the battery discharges to the cutoff voltage. For example, the residual energy can be used to retain data stored in the computer between opportunities to charge the battery. Some embodiments of the invention include hardware resources coupled with the processor…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.