Thermal management of electronic devices based on perceptual models

摘要

Some embodiments provide a method for performing thermal management of an electronic device. This method obtains a perceptual value based on (i) the temperature of the electronic device and (ii) the temperature change rate of the electronic device. The method associates a discomfort level from a plurality of discomfort levels with the electronic device based on the determined perceived value. At least one discomfort level is dynamically adjustable. The discomfort level specifies the maximum allowable activity of the processing unit of the electronic device. In some implementations, the discomfort level specifies how thermally uncomfortable the electronic device is for the user of the electronic device. In some implementations, each discomfort level from the plurality of discomfort levels is associated with a specific range of perceptual values. The perceptual value is based on a user adjustable perceptual model. The user adjustable perceptual model is based on one of several thermal coefficient constants.