Connector and second electronic device including the connector

By designing a connector that configures power connector components, the problem that the connector in the prior art cannot use external power supply is solved, efficient data transmission and power supply between electronic devices is achieved, and the equipment endurance and user experience are improved.

CN114026747BActive Publication Date: 2025-04-11INFINITE REALITY (SHANGHAI) TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202080044614.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2019-06-21
Filing Date
2020-06-04
Publication Date
2025-04-11
Estimated Expiration
2040-06-04

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

When connecting two electronic devices, existing connectors cannot use external power supply for power supply, resulting in the device being exhausted and has to be stopped. The number of connector slots is limited, making it impossible for users to use.

Method used

A connector is designed to connect the power supply connector assembly to the power supply to realize data transmission and power supply between the first electronic device and the second electronic device by configuring a power supply connector assembly in conjunction with the power supply connector assembly. The connector includes a data line, a power supply line, a message transmission line, and a power supply state detection circuit, which can detect the coupling state of the power supply connector component and the power supply, and send a power connection message through the message transmission line.

Benefits of technology

While transmitting data between the first electronic device and the second electronic device, power supply is achieved, power supply is supplied by a power supply, and the power battery life of the equipment is improved and user-friendly.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A connector (130, 230, 330) for coupling a first electronic device (110, 210, 310) and a second electronic device (120, 220, 320) to a power source (140, 430) so that the power source (140, 430) provides current to the first electronic device (110, 210, 310) and the second electronic device (120, 220, 320). The connector (130, 230, 330) comprises: a first connector component (133, 233, 333) for coupling with the first electronic device (110, 210, 310) and the second electronic device (120, 220, 320). , 210, 310) coupling; a power supply connector assembly (134, 234, 334) for coupling with a power source (140, 430); a power line (136a, 136b, 136c, 136d, 136e) for coupling a second electronic device (120, 220, 320) and a first connector assembly (133, 233, 333) to the power supply connector assembly (134, 234, 334); a data line (131, 231, 331), one end of the data line (131, 231, 331) is connected to the second electronic device (120, 220, 320) and the first connector assembly (133, 233, 333) The sub-device (120, 220, 320) is coupled, and the other end is coupled to the first connector component (133, 233, 333); and the power supply status detection circuit (135, 235, 335) is coupled to the power supply connector component (134, 234, 334) and is configured to detect whether the power supply connector component (134, 234, 334) is coupled to the power supply (140, 430); a message transmission line (132, 232, 332), one end of the message transmission line (132, 232, 332) is coupled to the power supply status detection circuit The power supply status detection circuit (135, 235, 335) is configured to: upon detecting that the power supply connector assembly (134, 234, 334) is coupled to the power supply (140, 430), send a power supply (140, 430) connection message to the second electronic device (120, 220, 320) via the message transmission line (132, 232, 332).
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of electronic communications, and in particular, to a connector for connecting a first electronic device and a second electronic device, and the second electronic device comprising the connector. Background Art

[0002] At present, there is an application scenario in which a connector is used to connect two electronic devices to transmit data between the two electronic devices. In this application scenario, data transmission consumes a lot of power. However, since the number of connector slots of electronic devices is usually limited (usually one), it is impossible to use an external power supply to power the electronic device. When the electronic device runs out of power, it has to stop using it and use its respective connector slot to charge. Therefore, the connector of the prior art is not convenient for users to use electronic devices. Summary of the invention

[0003] In view of the above, the present disclosure provides a connector for connecting a first electronic device and a second electronic device, and a second electronic device including the connector. By using the connector, a power supply connector assembly that cooperates with a power supply connector assembly is configured to access a power supply, so that data can be transmitted between the first electronic device and the second electronic device, and the first electronic device and the second electronic device can be powered by the power supply.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a connector is provided for coupling a first electronic device and a second electronic device to a power source so that the power source provides current to the first electronic device and the second electronic device, wherein the first electronic device can be communicatively connected to the second electronic device via the connector and supply power to the second electronic device, and the connector comprises: a first connector component for coupling to the first electronic device; a power supply connector component for coupling to the power source; a power cord for coupling the second electronic device and the first connector component to the power supply connector component so that the power source supplies power to the second electronic device and the first electronic device; and a data cord, one end of the data cord is coupled to the second electronic device, and the other end is coupled to the first connector component for communication. Data transmission; and a power supply status detection circuit, coupled to the power supply connector assembly, configured to detect whether the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power supply; a message transmission line, one end of the message transmission line is coupled to the power supply status detection circuit, wherein the other end of the message transmission line is coupled to the second electronic device, and the power supply status detection circuit is configured to: upon detecting that the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power supply, send a power connection message to the second electronic device via the message transmission line; or the other end of the message transmission line is coupled to the first connector assembly, and the power supply status detection circuit is configured to: upon detecting that the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power supply, send a power connection message to the first electronic device via the message transmission line. Wherein, the power connection message is used to indicate that the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power supply.

[0005] Optionally, in one example, the power cord may couple the first connector assembly to the power supply connector assembly via the second electronic device.

[0006] Optionally, in one example, the power connection message may include power configuration information.

[0007] Optionally, in one example, the connector may also include: a second connector component coupled to one end of the data line for coupling the data line to the second electronic device; and a third connector component coupled to the other end of the message transmission line for coupling the message transmission line to the first electronic device or the second electronic device.

[0008] Optionally, in one example, the first connector component and the second connector component may be of the same type.

[0009] Optionally, in one example, the first connector assembly and the second connector assembly can be any one of the following: a Universal Serial Bus Type-C type connector assembly; a Universal Serial Bus Thunderbolt type connector assembly; a Universal Serial Bus Type-B type connector assembly; a Universal Serial Bus Type-A type connector assembly; a mini Universal Serial Bus type assembly.

[0010] Optionally, in one example, the first connector component may be a universal serial interface component.

[0011] Optionally, in one example, when the other end of the message transmission line is coupled to the second electronic device, the connector may further include: a fourth connector component, which is coupled to one end of the data line and the other end of the message transmission line to couple the data line and the message transmission line to the second electronic device.

[0012] Optionally, in one example, the data line, the power line, and the message transmission line may be integrated into a connection cable.

[0013] Optionally, in one example, the connecting cable can be formed as a branch-type connecting cable, the first connector assembly can be located at one end of the connecting cable, the other end of the connecting cable can be used to couple with the second electronic device, and the power supply connector assembly can be located at the branch end of the connecting cable.

[0014] Optionally, in one example, the connector may further include a shell capable of accommodating the first electronic device, the connecting cable is fixed on the shell, and the second connector component extends outward from the shell.

[0015] Optionally, in one example, the power supply status detection circuit may be arranged in the connection cable.

[0016] Optionally, in one example, the second electronic device may be a wearable augmented reality device or a wearable virtual reality device.

[0017] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a second electronic device is provided, comprising the connector as described above.

[0018] Optionally, in one example, the power supply detection circuit may be disposed in the second electronic device.

[0019] By utilizing the connector disclosed herein, by setting a power supply connector assembly that cooperates with the power connector assembly, and using a message transmission line to send a power connection message to the first electronic device or the second electronic device, it is possible to use a power supply to power the first electronic device and the second electronic device when data is transmitted between the first electronic device and the second electronic device, thereby improving the power endurance of the first electronic device and the second electronic device for user convenience.

[0020] With the connector of the present disclosure, by coupling the power line to the first connector assembly via the second electronic device, the power line can be coupled to the power source and the first electronic device via the second electronic device.

[0021] By using the connector disclosed in the present invention, a power configuration message is sent to the first electronic device or the second electronic device, so that when the power connection message is sent to the first electronic device, the first electronic device can stop supplying power to the second electronic device when the power configuration information indicates that the power supply has the ability to supply power to the second electronic device, and when the power connection message is sent to the second electronic device, the second electronic device can send a stop power supply message to the first electronic device when the power configuration information indicates that the power supply has the ability to supply power to the second electronic device. In this way, it is possible to prevent the second electronic device from not being able to work properly after the first electronic device stops supplying power to the second electronic device.

[0022] By using the connector disclosed in the present invention, a second connector interface and a third connector interface are provided at one end where the data line and the message transmission line are connected to the second electronic device, so that the connector can be connected to the second electronic device in a pluggable manner, which is convenient for users to use.

[0023] With the connector of the present disclosure, the power supply state detection circuit is arranged close to the first connector assembly, so that the user can move conveniently when using the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0024] By utilizing the connector disclosed herein, the data line, power line, and message transmission line are integrated into a connecting cable, thereby avoiding the inconvenience caused by the use of multiple connecting cables, thereby further facilitating the user to use the connector to connect the first electronic device and the second electronic device and the power supply. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present disclosure may be achieved by referring to the following drawings. In the drawings, similar components or features may have the same reference numerals. The drawings are used to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the present invention and constitute a part of the specification. Together with the following specific embodiments, they are used to explain the embodiments of the present disclosure, but do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 1A It is a schematic structural diagram of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a first electronic device and a second electronic device to which the connector is applicable.

[0027] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A The illustrated schematic diagram is a diagram of an example of the connection relationship between various circuits of the connector when connecting a first electronic device and a second electronic device.

[0028] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A The illustrated schematic diagram is another example of the connection relationship between various circuits of the connector when connecting the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0029] Figure 2 It is a schematic structural diagram of a connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure and a first electronic device and a second electronic device to which the connector is applicable.

[0030] Figure 3 It is a structural schematic diagram of a second electronic device and a first electronic device that can be coupled thereto according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit connection relationship when a connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure connects a first electronic device and a second electronic device.

[0032] Description of Reference Numerals

[0033] 110: first electronic device 111: first device-side connector assembly

[0034] 120: second electronic device 130: connector

[0035] 131: Data line 132: Message transmission line

[0036] 133: First connector component 134: Power supply connector component

[0037] 135: Power supply status detection circuit

[0038] 136a / 136b / 136c / 136d / 136e: Power cable

[0039] 140: Power supply 210: First electronic device

[0040] 211: first device-side connector assembly 220: second electronic device

[0041] 221: second device-side connector component 222: third device-side connector component

[0042] 230: Connector 231: Data cable

[0043] 232: message transmission line 233: first connector component

[0044] 234: Power supply connector assembly 235: Power supply status detection circuit

[0045] 236: Second connector assembly 237: Third connector assembly

[0046] 310: first electronic device 311: first device-side connector assembly

[0047] 320: second electronic device 321: second adapter circuit

[0048] 330: Connector 331: Data cable

[0049] 332: message transmission line 333: first connector component

[0050] 334: Power supply connector assembly 335: Power supply status detection circuit

[0051] 410: first adaptation circuit 420: second adaptation circuit

[0052] 430: Power supply 440: Power supply connector assembly

[0053] 450: Power supply status detection circuit DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] The subject matter described herein will be discussed below with reference to example implementations. It should be understood that the discussion of these implementations is only to enable those skilled in the art to better understand and implement the subject matter described herein, and is not a limitation of the scope of protection, applicability or examples set forth in the claims. The functions and arrangements of the elements discussed may be changed without departing from the scope of protection of the present disclosure. Various examples may omit, replace or add various processes or components as needed. In addition, the features described relative to some examples may also be combined in other examples.

[0055] As used herein, the term "including" and its variations represent open terms, meaning "including but not limited to". The term "based on" means "based at least in part on". The terms "one embodiment" and "an embodiment" mean "at least one embodiment". The term "another embodiment" means "at least one other embodiment". The terms "first", "second", etc. may refer to different or the same objects. Other definitions may be included below, whether explicit or implicit. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the definition of a term is consistent throughout the specification.

[0056] As used herein, the term "coupled" refers to a direct mechanical connection, communication, or electrical connection between two components, or an indirect mechanical connection, communication, or electrical connection through an intermediate component. The term "electrically connected" refers to the ability of two components to communicate electrically for data / information exchange. Similarly, the electrical connection may refer to a direct electrical connection between two components, or an indirect electrical connection through an intermediate component. The electrical connection may be achieved by wire or wirelessly.

[0057] A connector of the present disclosure and a second electronic device including the connector will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Figure 1A It is a schematic structural diagram of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a first electronic device and a second electronic device to which the connector is applicable. Figure 1B yes Figure 1A The diagram shows the connection relationship of various circuits of the connector when connecting the first electronic device and the second electronic device. Figure 1C yes Figure 1A The schematic diagram of another example of the connection relationship between the various circuits of the connector when connecting the first electronic device and the second electronic device. Figure 1B and Figure 1C Connector components are omitted.

[0059] like Figure 1A As shown, the connector 130 is used to couple the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120. The first electronic device 110 can use its own power supply to power the second electronic device 120. The second electronic device itself may not have a power supply, or it may have a power supply. The first electronic device 110 can be, for example, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, or other devices. The second electronic device 120 can be, for example, a wearable virtual reality device (such as VR glasses), a wearable augmented reality device (such as AR glasses), a smart bracelet, a smart phone, a display device, etc. Normally, the first electronic device 110 is a master device and the second electronic device 120 is a slave device. The master device can transmit data (video, audio, pictures, etc.) to the slave device for various operations of the slave device (such as display operations).

[0060] The first electronic device 110 may have a first device-side connector component 111 and a first adapter circuit (not shown in the figure) coupled to the first device-side connector component 111. The second electronic device 120 may have a second adapter circuit (not shown in the figure). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the adapter circuit is coupled to the connector component or to the corresponding connecting cable, so that when the connector component at the connector end is coupled to the device-side connector component, the data line or message transmission line of the connecting cable is coupled to the data transmission port or message transmission port of the adapter circuit, thereby transmitting signals or data through the data line and the message transmission line. The adapter circuit can also couple the power line of the connector to the power port of the electronic device to power the electronic device. The adapter circuit can also execute the Power Deliver (PD) protocol. The adapter circuit can also detect and determine the insertion direction of the connector component and configure the data transmission port according to the insertion direction. For example, the device-side connector component and the connector component at the connector end can be a type that can realize positive and negative plugging, such as Type-C, Lightning, etc. At this time, the adapter circuit can configure the data port of the connector slot according to the insertion direction of the connector interface. The adaptation circuit is the adaptation circuit of the first electronic device and the second electronic device. For example, for a smart phone, its adaptation circuit can be part of the main control circuit of the mobile phone. For an AR / VR circuit, the adaptation circuit can be part of the circuit configured inside it.

[0061] As an example, the first electronic device 110 may be a smart phone, and the second electronic device 120 may be VR / AR glasses. When the smart phone and the VR / AR glasses are connected by a connecting cable (e.g., a USB cable), the smart phone can transmit video, audio and other data to the VR / AR glasses through the data line of the connecting cable, thereby displaying the VR / AR effect on the VR / AR glasses. At the same time, if the VR / AR glasses have no power supply, the smart phone can power the VR / AR glasses through the power line of the connecting cable. Alternatively, even if the AR / AR glasses have a power supply, their data display and data processing consume a lot of power, so the first electronic device can also be used to power them. In this case, data transmission and data display and data processing operations of the second electronic device 120 will consume a lot of power. When using the connecting cable of the prior art, the power supply cannot be used for power supply. When the power is exhausted, it must be suspended and wait for the first electronic device 110 and / or the second electronic device 120 to be charged before it can be continued.

[0062] And using Figure 1AThe connector 130 shown can realize data transmission between the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120 while using a power supply for power supply. The connector 130 includes a data line 131, a message transmission line 132, a first connector component 133, a power supply connector component 134, and a power supply state detection circuit 135 coupled to the power supply connector component 134. The power supply connector component 134 cooperates with the power supply connector component to couple with a power supply.

[0063] The connector 130 also includes a power line ( Figure 1A The power cord can be coupled to the first connector assembly, the second electronic device, and the power port of the power supply connector assembly to couple the first connector assembly and the second electronic device to the power supply connector assembly. For example, the power port of the first connector assembly, the second electronic device, and the power supply connector assembly can be coupled to a power bus (VBUS).

[0064] like Figure 1B As shown, in one example, the power line may include power lines 136a, 136b, and 136c, respectively coupling the first electronic device 110, the second electronic device 120, and the power supply status detection circuit 135 to VBUS. Power supply connector assembly ( Figure 1B The power port of the first electronic device 110 (not shown) can be coupled to the power port of the power supply state detection circuit 135, or can be coupled to VBUS. Thus, the power line can couple the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120 to the power supply connector assembly. When the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power supply 140, the power supply 140 can be coupled to the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120, so that the power supply 140 can be used to power both.

[0065] In another example, if Figure 1C As shown, the power line may include power lines 136c, 136d, and 136e. The power line 136c couples the power state detection circuit 135 to VBUS, the power line 136d couples the power state detection circuit 135 to the power port of the second electronic device 120, and the power line 136e couples the first electronic device to the power port of the second electronic device 120. Power supply connector assembly ( Figure 1C The power port of the power supply state detection circuit 135 (not shown) can be coupled to the power port of the power supply state detection circuit 135, or can be coupled to VBUS. Thus, the power line can couple the first electronic device 110 to the power supply connector assembly via the second electronic device 120, and the power line can couple the first electronic device to the power supply connector assembly via the second electronic device. When the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power supply 140, the power supply 140 can be coupled to the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120.

[0066] In addition, the power line may be coupled to the power port of the power supply connector assembly without passing through the power supply status detection circuit, or may be coupled to the power port of the power supply connector assembly through VBUS.

[0067] The first electronic device 110 may have a first device-end connector component 111. The first connector component 133 cooperates with the first device-end connector component 111 of the first electronic device 110 to couple the first electronic device 110. In one example, the first device-end connector component 111 may be a connector slot, and the first connector component 133 may be a connector plug that cooperates with the connector slot. When the first connector component 133 is inserted into the first device-end connector component 111, the first connector component 133 can be coupled to the first electronic device 110.

[0068] One end of the data line 131 is coupled to the data transmission port of the second electronic device 120, and the other end is coupled to the data transmission port of the first connector assembly 133. Figure 1B and 1C As shown, when the first connector component 133 is coupled to the first device-side connector component 111, the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120 are connected in communication via the data line 131, so that the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120 can perform data transmission via the data line 131. At the same time, since the power line is coupled to the second electronic device and the power port of the first connector component, the first electronic device can configure its own power state to a power supply state to supply power to the second electronic device via the power line.

[0069] The power supply connector assembly 134 can be matched with the power supply connector assembly. In one example, the power supply connector assembly can be a connector plug, and the power supply connector assembly 134 can be a connector slot that matches the power supply connector assembly. When the power supply connector assembly is inserted into the power supply connector assembly 134, the power supply can be coupled to the third connector assembly. The power supply connector assembly can be, for example, a serial bus Type-C (USB Type-C) type connector interface, a universal serial bus lightning type connector interface, a universal serial bus Type-B (USB Type-B or MicroUSB-B) type connector interface, a universal serial bus Type-A (USB Type-A or MicroUSB-A) type connector interface, a mini universal serial bus (MiniUSB) type interface, etc.

[0070] The power supply status detection circuit 135 is coupled to the power supply connector assembly 134. The power supply status detection circuit 135 is configured to detect whether the power supply connector assembly 134 is coupled to the power supply. In one example, the power supply connector assembly 134 may be a connector slot, and the power connector assembly may be a connector plug. In this example, the power supply status detection circuit 135 may detect whether the power connector assembly is inserted into the power supply connector assembly 134 in the form of a slot, thereby detecting whether the power supply is coupled to the power supply connector assembly. The power supply status detection circuit 135 may also be configured to obtain power supply configuration information of the power supply, such as parameters such as voltage and current. These power supply configuration information can reflect the power supply capability of the power supply. The power supply status detection circuit 135 may also be configured to detect the insertion direction of the power supply connector assembly, and may configure the data transmission port of the power supply connector assembly 134 according to the insertion direction. Figure 1B and 1C As shown, when the power connector assembly is coupled to the power supply connector assembly, the power source 140 is coupled to the power supply status detection circuit 135 .

[0071] One end of the message transmission line 132 is coupled to the power supply status detection circuit 135. Figure 1A As shown, the other end of the message transmission line 132 can be coupled to the second electronic device 120. Thus, when the power supply state detection circuit 135 detects that the power supply is coupled to the power supply connector assembly 134 for power supply, a power supply connection message can be sent to the second electronic device 120 via the message transmission line 132. In this example, the power supply connection message is used to notify the second electronic device 120 that the power supply connector assembly 134 is coupled to the power supply.

[0072] When the second electronic device 120 receives the power connection message, it can send a stop power supply message to the first electronic device 110 to notify the first electronic device to stop supplying power to the second electronic device. When the first electronic device 110 receives the stop power supply message, it stops supplying power to the second electronic device. Then, the first electronic device 110 can convert its internal power state to a powered state to use the power supply to supply power to it. The first electronic device 110 can perform a power state switching process in the PD protocol to set the power state to a powered state so that the power supply can supply power to the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0073] For example, in the case of a smartphone and AR / VR glasses, after the first connector component is coupled to the first device-end connector component of the smartphone, if the power supply connector component is not connected to the power supply 140, the first adapter circuit inside the smartphone can enable the smartphone to enter the display data output mode to output display data to the AR / VR glasses via the data line. At the same time, the smartphone can convert the power state to the power supply state by executing the PD protocol between the first adapter circuit and the second adapter circuit of the AR / VR glasses, so that the AR / VR glasses can be powered via the power line. After the power supply connector component is connected to the power supply 140, the second adapter circuit of the AR / VR glasses notifies the smartphone to stop supplying power to the AR / VR glasses after receiving the power connection message.

[0074] In another example, the other end of the message transmission line 132 can be coupled to the first connector component 133. In this example, the first connector component 133 may have a message transmission port in addition to the data transmission port and the power port, and the message transmission port is used to couple with the message transmission line. Thus, when the first connector component 133 is coupled to the first device-end connector component 111, the message transmission line 132 can be coupled to the first electronic device 110. In this example, when the power supply state detection circuit 135 detects that the power supply connector component 134 is coupled to the power supply 140, a power connection message can be sent to the first electronic device 110 via the message transmission line 132. When the first electronic device 110 receives the power connection message, it can stop supplying power to the second electronic device 120. After stopping supplying power to the second electronic device 120, the first electronic device 110 can convert its internal power state into a powered state to use the power supply to power it.

[0075] In one example, the power connection message may include power configuration information. The second electronic device 120 may determine whether to send a stop power message to the first electronic device 110 based on the power configuration message. When the second electronic device 120 receives the power configuration information, it may determine whether the power supply has the ability to supply power to the second electronic device based on the power configuration information. For example, it may be determined whether the voltage, current, etc. provided by the power supply can meet the power requirements of the second electronic device. Then, when the power supply has the ability to supply power to the second electronic device, the second electronic device 120 may send a stop power message to the first electronic device 110 so that the first electronic device stops supplying power to the second electronic device. When the other end of the message transmission line is coupled to the first device-side connector assembly 111, the first electronic device 110 may also determine whether to stop supplying power to the second electronic device 120 based on the power configuration information, and may also configure the power state based on the power configuration information.

[0076] After the first electronic device stops supplying power to the second electronic device, since the power port of the second electronic device is connected to the power source via the power port of the power supply connector assembly, the second electronic device can receive power from the power source and continue to work. After the first electronic device stops supplying power to it and receives power from the power source, the device can be restarted, and after restarting the device, a data transmission request is sent to the first adapter circuit of the first electronic device via the data line again, so that the first adapter circuit of the first electronic device configures the data output mode.

[0077] Thus, while normal data transmission is performed between the first electronic device and the second electronic device, the power supply 140 can be used to supply power to the second electronic device, thereby improving the battery life of the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0078] Figure 2 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure and a first electronic device and a second electronic device to which the connector is applicable. Figure 2 In the example shown, the other end of the message transmission line 232 is used to couple with the second electronic device 220 .

[0079] exist Figure 2 The power line is not shown in the figure, and the power line can couple the power ports of the first connector assembly 233 and the second connector assembly 236 with the power port of the power supply connector assembly 234 in any manner. For example, the power line can be coupled to the power ports of the first connector assembly 233, the second connector assembly 236, and the power supply connector assembly 234, respectively, and couple the three to VBUS. The power line can also couple the power ports of the second connector assembly 236 and the power supply connector assembly 234 to VBUS, and couple the power port of the second connector assembly 236 to the power port of the first connector assembly 233.

[0080] like Figure 2 As shown, the second electronic device 220 has a second device-side connector component 221 and a third device-side connector component 222, and the connector 230 has a second connector component 236 and a third connector component 237. The second connector component 236 and the third connector component 237 are respectively matched with the second device-side connector component 221 and the third device-side connector component 222. The second connector component 236 is coupled to one end of the data line coupled to the second electronic device 220, so as to couple the data line 231 to the second electronic device 220. The third connector component 237 is coupled to one end of the message transmission line coupled to the second electronic device 220, so as to couple the message transmission line 232 to the second electronic device 220.

[0081] When the first connector component 233 is coupled to the first device-side connector component 211 of the first electronic device, and the second connector component 236 and the third connector component 237 are coupled to the second device-side connector component 221 and the third device-side connector component 222, respectively, the connector 230 enables data transmission between the first electronic device and the second electronic device. When the power supply is coupled to the power supply connector component 234, the power supply state detection circuit 235 can send a power connection message to the second electronic device 220 via the message transmission line 232. When the second electronic device 220 receives the power connection message, it sends a stop power supply message to the first electronic device 210. After receiving the stop power supply message, the first electronic device 210 stops supplying power to the second electronic device 220 and converts its own power supply state to a power receiving state, so that the power supply can supply power to the first electronic device 210 and the second electronic device 220.

[0082] In another example, as a substitute for the second connector component 236 and the third connector component 237, the connector 230 may have a fourth connector component. The fourth connector component may have a data transmission port and a message transmission port, the data transmission port is coupled to one end of the data line coupled to the second electronic device, and the message transmission port is coupled to one end of the message transmission line coupled to the second electronic device. In this example, the second electronic device may have a device-end connector component, which cooperates with the fourth connector component, and when the fourth connector component is coupled to the device-end connector component, the data line and the message transmission line can be coupled to the second electronic device.

[0083] The data line, the power line and the message transmission line can be integrated into a connection cable. The data line and the power line can also be integrated into a first connection cable, and the message transmission line can be integrated into a second connection cable. In this example, one end of the first connection cable can be provided with a second connector component, and the other end can be provided with a first connector component; one end of the second connection cable can be provided with a third connector component, and the other end can be coupled to the status detection circuit.

[0084] The first connection cable and the second connection cable can be further integrated into the same connection cable to facilitate user use. The first connector component can be arranged at one end of the same connection cable, and the fourth connector component can be arranged at the other end of the same connection cable.

[0085] The connecting cable may be formed as a branch-type connecting cable, one end of which may be coupled to the first connector assembly, and the other end may be coupled to the second electronic device or to a connector assembly (e.g., the second connector assembly, the third connector assembly, the fourth connector assembly) for coupling with the second electronic device, and a power supply connector assembly for coupling a power source may be provided on the branch end. In another example, the connector may not be provided with a protruding branch end, for example, a power supply connector assembly may be provided at the intersection of a data line and a message transmission line.

[0086] In the example of integrating the power line and the data line into a first connecting cable, the first connecting cable can be any universal serial bus that can realize data transmission and power transmission functions, for example, it can be a universal serial bus Type-C (USB Type-C) cable, a universal serial bus Thunderbolt cable, a universal serial bus Type-B (USB Type-B or MicroUSB-B) cable, a universal serial bus Type-A (USB Type-A or MicroUSB-A) cable, a mini universal serial bus (MiniUSB) cable, etc.

[0087] The first connector component may be a universal serial interface component. For example, the first connector interface may be a universal serial bus Type-C (USB Type-C) type connector interface, a universal serial bus lightning type connector interface, a universal serial bus Type-B (USB Type-B or MicroUSB-B) type connector interface, a universal serial bus Type-A (USB Type-A or MicroUSB-A) type connector interface, a mini universal serial bus (MiniUSB) type interface, etc. In one example, the type of the second connector component may be the same as the first connector component.

[0088] In one example, the connector of the present disclosure may also include a housing capable of accommodating a first electronic device, a connecting cable may be fixed to the housing, and a second connector assembly and a third connector assembly (or a fourth connector assembly) may extend outward from the housing. At this time, the power supply status detection circuit may be arranged in the connecting cable, and may also be arranged in the housing. In this example, a power supply connector assembly may be arranged near a position where a power supply status detection circuit is arranged. In one example, the first connector assembly may be arranged at a position where the housing is close to a device-end connector of the first electronic device, so as to facilitate coupling of the first connector assembly to the first electronic device when the first electronic device is placed in the housing. The third connector assembly may extend outward from the housing, and may also be arranged on the housing, for example, may be arranged on the side of the housing.

[0089] The power state detection circuit can be arranged close to the first connector assembly. Since the user may need to hold or move the first electronic device or the second electronic device when using the first electronic device and the second electronic device, by arranging the power state detection circuit close to the first connector interface, the larger or heavier part of the connector can be close to the first electronic device, so as to facilitate the user to move or hold, and facilitate the user to insert or unplug the connector on the first electronic device. In one example, the power state detection circuit can be arranged in the connecting cable.

[0090] In one example, the connector described in the embodiments of the present disclosure may be a component of a second electronic device. Figure 3 It is a structural diagram of a second electronic device and a first electronic device that can be coupled thereto according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] like Figure 3 As shown, when the connector 330 is a component of the second electronic device 320, the power supply state detection circuit 335 can be arranged in the second electronic device 320, and coupled to the second adapter circuit 321 of the second electronic device 320 via the message transmission line 332. The power supply connector assembly 334 can be arranged on the second electronic device 320, and when the power supply is coupled to the power supply connector assembly 334, the power supply state detection circuit 335 sends a power connection message to the second adapter circuit 321 via the message transmission line 332. One end of the data line 331 can be coupled to the second adapter circuit 321, and the other end is coupled to the first connector assembly 333. The power line (not shown) can be coupled to VBUS, and can be coupled to the power port of the first connector assembly, the second adapter circuit and the power supply connector assembly. At least part of the power line can be integrated with the data line 331 as a connecting cable, and the first connector assembly can be arranged at one end of the connecting cable. The data line 331 can be coupled to the data transmission port of the first connector assembly 333, and the power line can be coupled to the power port of the first connector assembly. When the first connector component is coupled to the first device-end connector component, the second electronic device can be communicatively connected to the first electronic device via the data line, and the first electronic device can be coupled to the power supply connector component via the power line.

[0092] Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a circuit connection relationship when a connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is connected to a first electronic device and a second electronic device. Figure 4As an example, the power supply status detection circuit 450 is implemented based on the CCG2 chip, and the second adapter circuit 420 is implemented based on the CCG3 chip. The above chips are only listed for the purpose of explaining the implementation examples of the connector in detail. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to these and can be implemented using any electronic device that can implement the circuit functions of the present disclosure. The power supply status detection circuit and the second adapter circuit can also be implemented based on any electronic device that can implement the PD protocol and data transmission functions. In addition, Figure 4 Only the connection relationships used to illustrate the solutions of the present disclosure are illustrated, while other devices or connection relationships are omitted.

[0093] like Figure 4 As shown, the power connector assembly ( Figure 4 When the power supply connector assembly 440 is inserted into the power supply connector assembly 440 (not shown in the figure), the power supply 430 is connected to the power supply connector assembly 440. The data port of the power supply connector assembly 440 is connected to the CC line of CCG2 in the chip power supply state detection circuit 450 to transmit a power connection message to CCG2. The I2C data port of the power supply state detection circuit 450 is coupled to the I2C data port of the second adapter circuit 420 via the data line. Thus, the power supply state detection circuit 450 can send a power connection message to the second adapter circuit 420 via the message transmission line.

[0094] It should be noted that although Figure 4 The power state detection circuit and the second adapter circuit shown in the figure transmit the power connection message through the I2C communication mode, but those skilled in the art can also transmit the power connection message through other data communication protocols or formats by properly configuring the power state detection circuit and the second adapter circuit. For example, the power connection message can also be transmitted based on the USB2.0 protocol by properly configuring the circuit.

[0095] Reference above Figures 1A to 4 , the embodiments of the connector and the method for power supply using the connector according to the present disclosure are described. The details mentioned in the above description of the method embodiment are also applicable to the embodiment of the device of the present disclosure. The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, and the same and similar parts between the various embodiments are referenced to each other.

[0096] The above is a description of a specific embodiment of the specification. Other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims. In some cases, the actions or steps recorded in the claims can be performed in an order different from that in the embodiments and still achieve the desired results. In addition, the processes depicted in the drawings do not necessarily require the specific order or continuous order shown to achieve the desired results. In some embodiments, multitasking and parallel processing are also possible or may be advantageous.

[0097] Not all steps and units in the above-mentioned processes and system structure diagrams are necessary, and some steps or units can be ignored according to actual needs. The execution order of each step is not fixed and can be determined according to needs. The device structure described in the above-mentioned embodiments can be a physical structure or a logical structure, that is, some units may be implemented by the same physical entity, or some units may be implemented by multiple physical entities, or some components in multiple independent devices may be implemented together.

[0098] The term "exemplary" as used throughout this specification means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration" and does not imply "preferred" or "advantageous" over other embodiments. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing an understanding of the described techniques. However, the techniques may be implemented without these specific details. In some instances, in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the described embodiments, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form.

[0099] The optional implementation modes of the embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings; however, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the specific details in the above implementation modes; within the technical concept of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a variety of simple modifications can be made to the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, and these simple modifications all fall within the protection scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0100] The above description of the present disclosure is provided to enable any person of ordinary skill in the art to implement or use the present disclosure. Various modifications to the present disclosure will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the scope of protection of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples and designs described herein, but is consistent with the widest range of principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A connector for coupling a first electronic device and a second electronic device to a power source so that the power source provides current to the first electronic device and the second electronic device, wherein the first electronic device can be communicatively connected to the second electronic device via the connector and supply power to the second electronic device, the connector comprising: A first connector assembly, used to couple with the first electronic device; A power supply connector assembly, used for coupling with the power supply; a power cord, coupling the second electronic device and the first connector assembly to the power supply connector assembly so that the power supply supplies power to the second electronic device and the first electronic device; a data line, one end of which is coupled to the second electronic device and the other end of which is coupled to the first connector assembly for data transmission, wherein the first electronic device transmits video data to the second electronic device via the data line, and the video data is used for display operation of the second electronic device; and A power supply status detection circuit, coupled to the power supply connector assembly, configured to detect whether the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power source; a message transmission line, one end of which is coupled to the power supply status detection circuit, The other end of the message transmission line is coupled to the second electronic device, and the power supply status detection circuit is configured to: when detecting that the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power supply, send a power connection message to the second electronic device via the message transmission line; or The other end of the message transmission line is coupled to the first connector assembly, and the power supply status detection circuit is configured to: when detecting that the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power supply, send a power supply connection message to the first electronic device via the message transmission line, The power connection message is used to indicate that the power supply connector assembly is coupled to the power source.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The power cord couples the first connector assembly to the power supply connector assembly via the second electronic device.

3. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The power connection message includes power configuration information.

4. The connector according to claim 1, further comprising: a second connector assembly coupled to the one end of the data line to couple the data line to the second electronic device; as well as The third connector component is coupled to the other end of the message transmission line to couple the message transmission line to the first electronic device or the second electronic device.

5. The connector according to claim 4, wherein: The first connector assembly and the second connector assembly are of the same type.

6. The connector according to claim 5, wherein: The first connector component and the second connector component are any one of the following: Universal Serial Bus Type-C connector assembly; Universal Serial Bus Thunderbolt type connector assembly; Universal Serial Bus Type-B connector assembly; Universal Serial Bus Type-A connector assembly; Mini USB type component.

7. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first connector component is a universal serial interface component.

8. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: When the other end of the message transmission line is coupled to the second electronic device, the connector further comprises: A fourth connector component is coupled to the one end of the data line and the other end of the message transmission line to couple the data line and the message transmission line to the second electronic device.

9. The connector according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: The data line, the power line and the message transmission line are integrated into a connecting cable.

10. The connector according to claim 9, wherein: The connection cable is formed as a branch type connection cable, the first connector assembly is located at one end of the connection cable, the other end of the connection cable is used to couple with the second electronic device, and the power supply connector assembly is located at the branch end of the connection cable.

11. The connector as claimed in claim 10, further comprising a housing capable of accommodating the first electronic device, the connecting cable being fixed to the housing, and the second connector component extending outward from the housing.

12. The connector of claim 9, wherein: The power supply status detection circuit is arranged in the connection cable.

13. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The second electronic device is a wearable augmented reality device or a wearable virtual reality device.

14. A second electronic device comprising the connector according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The second electronic device as claimed in claim 14, wherein: The power supply status detection circuit is arranged in the second electronic device.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Method and electronic device for controlling power between electronic devices

    US20190064900A1