Connector and method for controlling charging using the connector

Abstract

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, comprising: a first connector component; a second connector component; a third connector component; a power line coupling the first connector component, the second connector component and the third connector component; a first data line; a signal switching circuit configured to detect whether the third connector component is coupled to the power source; if the detection result is no, control the first connector component to couple with the second connector component; if the detection result is yes, control the first connector component to couple with the third connector component, and send a power connection message to the first electronic device via the first data line; or control the second connector component to couple with the third connector component, and send a power connection message to the second electronic device via the first data line. The connector can realize the use of the power source to power two devices when data is transmitted between the devices, thereby improving the use time of the devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of electronic communications, and in particular, to a connector and a method for controlling charging using 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 electricity. 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 power of the electronic device is exhausted, it has to stop using it and use its respective connector slot for charging. Therefore, the prior art requires a connector that can use an external power supply to power while performing data transmission between electronic devices. Summary of the invention

[0003] In view of the above, the present disclosure provides a connector and a method for controlling charging using the connector. Using the connector and the method, by configuring a third connector component to access a power source, it is possible to realize data transmission between a first electronic device and a second electronic device while using the power source to power the second electronic device.

[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 second connector component for coupling to the second electronic device; a third connector component for coupling to the power source; a power line coupled to the first connector component, the second connector component and the third connector component; a first data line for connecting the first connector component, the second connector component and the third connector component via a signal switching circuit. Any two of the connector components are operably coupled; and the signal switching circuit is configured to: detect whether the third connector component is coupled to the power supply; when the third connector component is not detected to be coupled to the power supply, control the first connector component to couple with the second connector component via the first data line; and when the third connector component is detected to be coupled to the power supply: control the first connector component to couple with the third connector component via the first data line to send a power connection message to the first electronic device via the first data line; or control the second connector component to couple with the third connector component via the first data line to send a power connection message to the second electronic device via the first data line. Wherein, the power connection message is used to indicate that the third connector component is coupled to the power supply.

[0005] Optionally, in one example, the connector may further include: a second data line, coupling the first connector component with the second connector component.

[0006] Optionally, in one example, the signal switching circuit may also be configured to: after sending a power connection message to the first electronic device or the second electronic device via the first data line, control the first connector component to couple with the second connector component.

[0007] Optionally, in one example, the power connection message may also include power configuration information.

[0008] Optionally, in one example, the power line can be operably coupled to the third connector assembly via the signal switching circuit, and the signal switching circuit is further configured to: after sending a power connection message to the first electronic device or the second electronic device via the first data line, obtain the power supply status of the first electronic device supplying the second electronic device via the power line; and in response to the first electronic device stopping supplying power to the second electronic device via the power line, couple the third connector assembly to the power line so that the power supplies power to the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0009] Optionally, in one example, the first connector component and the second connector component may be of the same type.

[0010] 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.

[0011] Optionally, in one example, the connector may be fixed to the second connector assembly and the second electronic device in an undetachable manner.

[0012] Optionally, in one example, the signal switching circuit may be arranged close to the first connector component or the second connector component.

[0013] Optionally, in one example, the first data line, the second data line, and the power line may be integrated into a connection cable.

[0014] Optionally, in one example, the connecting cable can be formed as a branch-type connecting cable, the first connector component is located at one end of the connecting cable, the second connector component is located at the other end of the connecting cable, and the third connector component is located at the branch end of the connecting cable.

[0015] 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.

[0016] Optionally, in one example, the signal switching circuit may be arranged in the connection cable.

[0017] Optionally, in one example, the second electronic device may be a wearable augmented reality device or a wearable virtual reality device.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for power supply control using the connector as described above is also provided, comprising: detecting whether the third connector component is coupled to the power supply; when the third connector component is not detected to be coupled to the power supply, controlling the first connector component to couple to the second connector component; and when the third connector component is detected to be coupled to the power supply: controlling the first connector component to couple to the third connector component via the first data line to send a power connection message to the first electronic device via the first data line; or controlling the second connector component to couple to the third connector component via the first data line to send a power connection message to the second electronic device via the first data line. The power connection message is used to indicate that the third connector component is coupled to the power supply via the first data line.

[0019] By using the connector disclosed in the present invention, by setting a third connector component coupled to a power source, it is possible to use the power source 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 increasing the use time of the first electronic device and the second electronic device. In addition, by setting a signal switching circuit and using the signal switching circuit to control the first data line to couple the second electronic device and the third connector component or the first electronic device and the third connector component when the power is connected, so as to send a power connection message to the second electronic device or the first electronic device, there is no need to set a signal transmission line specifically for transmitting the power connection message.

[0020] By using the connector disclosed in the present invention, power configuration information is transmitted to the second electronic device, so that the second electronic device can send a stop power supply message to the first electronic device when the power configuration information indicates that the connected power supply has the ability to supply power to the second electronic device, so that the first electronic device stops supplying power to the second electronic device and performs a power state conversion. In this way, it is possible to prevent the second electronic device from failing to operate normally after the first electronic device stops supplying power to the second electronic device.

[0021] By using the connector disclosed in the present invention, by configuring the second data line that couples the first connector component and the second connector component, the first electronic device and the second electronic device can transmit data normally during the power connection message sending process when the power is connected.

[0022] By using the connector disclosed in the present invention, after sending a power connection message to the second electronic device via the first data line, the first connector component is controlled to couple with the second connector component, so that the first electronic device and the second electronic device can perform data transmission via the first data line.

[0023] With the connector of the present disclosure, the signal switching circuit is arranged close to the first connector component or the second connector component, thereby facilitating use by users. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] 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.

[0025] Figure 1 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.

[0026] Figure 2A 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.

[0027] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A The diagram shows the connection relationship of various circuits of the connector when connecting the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0028] Figure 3 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.

[0029] Figure 4 is a flow chart of a method for controlling charging using a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Description of Reference Numerals

[0031] 110: first electronic device 111: first device-side connector

[0032] 120: second electronic device 121: second device end connector

[0033] 131: first connector component 132: second connector component

[0034] 133: third connector assembly 134: first data line

[0035] 135: signal switching circuit 136: second data line

[0036] 210: first electronic device 211: first connector slot

[0037] 220: second electronic device 221: second connector slot

[0038] 230: Connector 231: Connecting cable

[0039] 2311: First connector component 2312: Second connector component

[0040] 2313: first data line portion 2314: first data line portion

[0041] 2315: first data line portion 232: third connector assembly

[0042] 233: Power supply status detection circuit 234: Power supply control circuit

[0043] 2341: Switch control signal sending port 2342: Data sending port

[0044] 235: signal switch circuit 2351: first data port

[0045] 2352: Second data port 2353: Third data port

[0046] 2354: switch status control port 240: power supply

[0047] 310: first electronic device 320: second electronic device

[0048] 330: Power supply 340: Third connector assembly

[0049] 350: power supply status detection circuit 360: power supply control circuit

[0050] 370: Signal switch circuit DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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. Similarly, the coupling 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.

[0054] The connector and the method for controlling charging using the connector of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0055] Figure 1 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.

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, the connector 130 is used to couple the first electronic device 110 with the second electronic device 120. When the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device are coupled by the connector 130, the first electronic device 110 can be connected to the power supply line ( Figure 1 The first electronic device 110 (not shown) uses its own power supply to supply power to the second electronic device, and the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device can transmit data through the data line of the connector 130. The second electronic device 120 itself may not have a power supply, or may also have a power supply. The first electronic device 110 may be, for example, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, or the like. The second electronic device 120 may 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, and the like. Typically, the first electronic device 110 is a master device and the second electronic device 120 is a slave device, and 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).

[0057] As an example, the first electronic device 110 may be a smart phone, and the second electronic device 120 may be a VR / AR glasses. When the smart phone and the VR / AR glasses are coupled using 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 VR / 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, it is impossible to use an external power supply 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.

[0058] And using Figure 1 The connector 130 shown can realize data transmission between the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120 while using an external power source for power supply.

[0059] The first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120 may have a first device-side connector 111 and a second device-side connector 121. The connector 130 has a first connector component 131 and a second connector component 132, which respectively cooperate with the first device-side connector 111 and the second device-side connector 121 to be respectively coupled with the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120. In one example, the first device-side connector 111 and the second device-side connector 121 may be connector slots, and the first connector component 131 and the second connector component 132 may be connector plugs that cooperate with the connector slots. When the first connector component 131 and the second connector component 132 are respectively inserted into the first device-side connector 111 and the second device-side connector 121, the first connector component 131 and the second connector component 132 can be respectively coupled with the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0060] The connector 130 also includes a third connector component 133 coupled to the power source. The third connector component 133 can be matched with the power connector component. In one example, the power connector component can be a connector plug, and the third connector component 133 can be a connector socket matched with the power connector component. When the power connector component is inserted into the third connector component, the power source can be coupled to the third connector component.

[0061] The connector 130 further includes a first data line 134, a second data line 136, and a signal switching circuit 135. The first data line 134 operably couples any two of the first connector component 131, the second connector component 132, and the third connector component 133 via the signal switching circuit 135.

[0062] When the third connector component 133 is not detected to be coupled to the power source, the signal switching circuit 135 controls the first connector component 131 to couple with the second connector component 132 via the first data line 134, so that the first electronic device 110 can perform data transmission with the second electronic device 120 via the first data line 134. At this time, the first electronic device 110 can supply power to the second electronic device 120 via the power line.

[0063] When it is detected that the third connector component 133 is coupled to the power source, the signal switching circuit 135 controls the first connector component 131 to couple with the third connector component 133 via the first data line 134. At this time, the third connector component 133 can be coupled to the first electronic device 110 via the signal switching circuit 135 to send a power connection message to the first electronic device 110 via the first data line 134. The power connection message is used to indicate that the third connector component 133 is coupled to the power source. Alternatively, the signal switching circuit 135 can also control the second connector component 132 to couple with the third connector component 133 via the first data line 134, so that the third connector component 133 is coupled to the second electronic device 120 via the signal switching circuit 135 to send a power connection message to the second electronic device 120 via the first data line 134.

[0064] The power connection message is used to notify the first electronic device 110 or the second electronic device 120 that the power supply has been connected. Since the power line of the connector 130 is coupled to the first connector component 131, the second connector component 132 and the third connector component 133, when the power supply is coupled to the third connector component 133, the power supply can be used to power the second electronic device 120. When the first electronic device 110 receives the power connection message, it can be determined that it is no longer necessary to power the second electronic device at this time, so the internal power state of the first electronic device can be converted to a power receiving state. Thus, the power supply can charge the first electronic device. When the second electronic device 120 receives the power connection message, it can be determined that there is a power supply to power itself at this time, so a stop power supply message can be sent to the first electronic device 110 to notify the first electronic device 110 to stop supplying power to the second electronic device 120. Thus, after stopping supplying power to the second electronic device, the first electronic device converts its internal power supply state to a power receiving state to charge with the power supply. The first electronic device 110 can perform a power state switching (PowerSwap) process in the PD protocol to set the power state to a power receiving state.

[0065] The power line can also be operably coupled to the third connector assembly 133 via the signal switching circuit 135. As an example, a power switch for controlling the power line and the power terminal of the third connector assembly to be connected or disconnected can be configured in the signal switching circuit to control the power line to be coupled or disconnected from the third connector assembly. At this time, the signal switching circuit 135 can also be configured to obtain the power supply status of the first electronic device 110 to the second electronic device 120 via the power line after sending a power connection message to the first electronic device 110 or the second electronic device 120 via the first data line 134. For example, the signal switching circuit 135 can detect whether there is current in the power line coupling the first electronic device and the second electronic device, and when there is no current, it indicates that the first electronic device 110 has stopped supplying power to the second electronic device 120. Then, the signal switching circuit 135 can couple the power terminal of the third connector assembly 133 to the power line in response to the first electronic device 110 stopping supplying power to the second electronic device 120 via the power line, so that the power line is connected to the power supply, thereby supplying power to the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120.

[0066] In one example, the signal switching circuit 135 may also be configured to control the first connector component 131 to couple with the second connector component 132 via the first data line 134 after sending a power connection message to the first electronic device 110 or the second electronic device 120 via the first data line 134. Thus, after sending a power connection message to the first electronic device 110 or the second electronic device 120, the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120 can continue to use the first data line 134 for data transmission.

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown, the connector 130 also has a second data line 136. The second data line 136 is coupled to the first connector component 131 and the second connector component 132 to transmit data via the second data line when the first electronic device and the second electronic device are connected. In another example, the connector 130 may not include the second data line 136. When the second data line 136 is included, since data transmission can be achieved using the second data line 136, the signal switching circuit 135 may not couple the first data line to the first connector component 131 and the second connector component 132 after sending the power connection message.

[0068] Figure 2A 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. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A The diagram shows the connection relationship of various circuits of the connector when connecting the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0069] like Figure 2A As shown, the connector 230 is used to couple the first electronic device 210 and the second electronic device 220 .

[0070] The first electronic device 210 may have a first connector slot 211, and the second electronic device 220 may have a second connector slot 221. The first electronic device 210 and the second electronic device 220 may have an adapter circuit coupled to the first connector slot 211 and the second connector slot 221. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the adapter circuit is coupled to the connector slot or the connecting cable (in an example not via the connector slot and the connector interface) so that when the connector interface of the connecting cable is inserted into the connector slot, the data line of the connecting cable is connected to the data transmission port of the adapter circuit, thereby transmitting a signal or data through the connecting cable, and at the same time connecting the power line of the connecting cable to the adapter circuit or the power line of the electronic device to power the electronic device. In one embodiment, the adapter circuit is also capable of executing the Power Delivery (PD) protocol. The adapter circuit can also detect and determine the insertion direction of the connector interface, and configure the data transmission port according to the insertion direction. For example, the connector interface and the connector slot can be of 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 adapter circuit is the adapter circuit of the first electronic device and the second electronic device. For example, for a smartphone, its adapter circuit may be part of the main control circuit of the smartphone. For VR / AR glasses, the adapter circuit may be part of its internal circuit.

[0071] like Figure 2A As shown, the first data line, the power line and the second data line (if any) can be integrated into the connection cable 231. In this case, the first connector component 2311 and the second connector component 2312 can be provided at both ends of the connection cable 231. Figure 2A As shown, the connecting cable can be formed as a branch cable, and the third connector assembly 232 can be formed as a branch end of the branch cable. The third connector assembly can be any type of connector plug, and can also be any type of connector socket.

[0072] exist Figure 2A and Figure 2BIn the embodiment, the signal switching circuit may include a power supply status detection circuit 233, a power supply control circuit 234 and a signal switching circuit 235, and the three may be arranged on the same printed circuit board. It should be noted that the signal switching circuit may also be implemented in other circuit composition modes that can realize the functions of the present disclosure. For example, the power supply status detection circuit and the power supply control circuit may be integrated into one circuit. The signal switching circuit may be arranged to be close to the first connector component 2311 or the second connector component 2312. 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 printed circuit board to be close to the first connector component or the second connector component, the larger or heavier part of the connector can be close to the first electronic device or the second electronic device to facilitate the user to move or hold it.

[0073] In one example, the connector of the present disclosure may also include a housing capable of accommodating a first electronic device, a connecting cable being fixed to the housing, and a second connector assembly extending outward from the housing. In this case, the signal switching circuit may be arranged in the connecting cable 231, or may be arranged in the housing. In this case, a third connector assembly 232 may be arranged near a position where a power supply status detection circuit 233 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, or may be arranged on the housing, for example, may be arranged on the side of the housing.

[0074] like Figure 2B As shown, the first data line of the connecting cable 231 may include first data line parts 2313, 2314, and 2315. The first data line part 2313 and the first data line part 2314 are respectively connected to the first connector component 2311 and the second connector component 2312 ( Figure 2B The first data line portion 2315 is coupled to the signal switching circuit 235 and the power supply control circuit 234. The signal switching circuit 235 is arranged between the first data line portion 2313 and the first data line portion 2314 and the first data line portion 2315. The power line (not shown in the figure) of the connecting cable 231 can be coupled to the power terminal of the third connector component 232. The power line can also be operably coupled to the power terminal of the third connector component 232 via the power supply control circuit 234. Figure 2B In the example shown, the power line of the connecting cable 231 is coupled to the power terminal of the third connector assembly 232 through the power bus (VBUS), and the power line is coupled to the first connector assembly 2311, the second connector assembly 2312 and the third connector assembly 232 through the power bus.

[0075] The power supply status detection circuit 233 is coupled to the third connector assembly 232. The power supply status detection circuit 233 can be configured to detect whether the power connector assembly is coupled to the third connector assembly 232 to supply power. For example, the power supply status detection circuit 233 can detect whether the power connector interface is inserted into the third connector assembly 232 in the form of a slot. The power supply status detection circuit 233 can 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 capacity of the power supply. The power supply status detection circuit 233 can also be configured to detect the insertion direction of the power connector assembly and configure the data transmission port of the third connector assembly 232 according to the insertion direction.

[0076] refer to Figure 2B , the power supply control circuit 234 is coupled to the power supply state detection circuit 233 and the signal switch circuit 235. The switch control signal transmission port 2341 of the power supply control circuit 234 is connected to the switch state control port 2354 of the signal switch circuit 235, so as to control the signal switch state by sending a switch state control signal to the signal switch circuit 235 through the switch control signal transmission port 2341. The signal switch circuit 235 can be arranged such that the first data port 2351 is connected to the first data line portion 2313, the second data port 2352 is connected to the first data line portion 2314, and the third data port 2353 is connected to the data transmission port 2342 of the power supply control circuit 234. Thus, when the connection cable 231 connects the first electronic device and the second electronic device, any two of the first electronic device 210, the second electronic device 220 and the power supply control circuit 234 can be coupled by controlling the first data port 2351, the second data port 2352 and the third data port 2353 of the signal switch circuit 235, respectively.

[0077] like Figure 2B As shown, when the power supply 240 is not detected to be coupled to the third connector assembly 232, the power supply control circuit 234 can send a switch control signal to the signal switch circuit 235 through the switch control signal sending port 2341, so as to couple the first data line portion 2313 with the first data line portion 2314 by controlling the signal switch circuit 235. At this time, the first data port 2351 and the second data port 2352 are connected, and the first electronic device 110 and the second electronic device 120 can perform normal data transmission via the first data line portion 2313 and the first data line portion 2314. At the same time, the first electronic device configures its power state to the power supply state, and supplies power to the second electronic device 120 via the power line of the connection cable 231.

[0078] For example, in the case of a smartphone and VR / AR glasses, after the first connector component and the second connector component are coupled to the smartphone and the VR / AR glasses respectively, if the third connector component is not coupled to the power source, the smartphone can enter the display data output mode to output display data to the VR / AR glasses via the connection cable. At the same time, the smartphone can convert the power state to the power supply state by executing the PD protocol between the smartphone and the VR / AR glasses, thereby powering the VR / AR glasses.

[0079] When it is detected that the power source 240 is coupled to the third connector assembly 232, the power supply control circuit 234 can control the signal switch circuit 235 to couple the first data line portion 2314 to the first data line portion 2315, so that the second electronic device 220 is coupled to the power supply control circuit 234. Figure 2B As shown, the second data port 2352 can be connected to the third data port 2353 at this time. Thus, the power supply control circuit 234 can send a power connection message to the second electronic device 220 via the first data line portion 2314 and the first data line portion 2315. The power connection message is used to notify the second electronic device that the power supply 240 that supplies power to it has been connected. Subsequently, the second electronic device can send a stop power supply message to the first electronic device to notify the first electronic device to stop supplying power to the second electronic device. After receiving the stop power supply message, the first electronic device can convert its power supply state to a power receiving state to charge with the power supply.

[0080] In addition, when it is detected that the power source 240 is coupled to the third connector assembly 232, the power supply control circuit 234 can also control the signal switch circuit 235 to couple the first data line portion 2313 with the first data line portion 2315, so that the first electronic device 210 is coupled to the power supply control circuit 234. Figure 2B As shown, at this time, the first data port 2351 can be connected to the third data port 2353. Therefore, the power supply control circuit 234 can send the power connection message to the first electronic device 210 via the first data line portion 2313 and the first data line portion 2315. After receiving the power connection message, the first electronic device can convert its own power state into a power receiving state.

[0081] After sending the power connection message to the first electronic device 210 or the second electronic device 220, the power supply control circuit 234 can control the signal switch circuit 235 to connect the first data line portion 2313 with the first data line portion 2314. Thus, the first electronic device 210 and the second electronic device 220 can perform data transmission via the first data line.

[0082] Thus, the power supply 240 can be used to power the first electronic device and the second electronic device while normal data transmission is performed between the first electronic device and the second electronic device. In addition, the first data line can be controlled by the power supply control circuit 234 and the signal switch circuit 235 to realize message and data transmission, thereby realizing message transmission without setting an additional message transmission line.

[0083] In one example, the power connection message may include power configuration information. The second electronic device 220 may determine whether to send a stop power message to the first electronic device 210 based on the power configuration message. When the second electronic device 220 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 supply 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 220 may send a stop power message to the first electronic device 210 so that the first electronic device stops supplying power to the second electronic device. The first electronic device 210 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.

[0084] The first connector component and the second connector component may be of the same type. The first connector component and the second connector component may be, for example, a universal serial bus Type-C (USB Type-C) type connector component, a universal serial bus Thunderbolt type connector component, a universal serial bus Type-B (USB Type-B or MicroUSB-B) type connector component, a universal serial component Type-A (USB Type-A or MicroUSB-A) type connector component, or a mini universal serial bus (MiniUSB) type component.

[0085] In one example, the connector can be fixed to the second electronic device in an undetachable manner according to the second connector assembly, that is, one end of the connector connected to the second electronic device can be fixed to the second electronic device, thereby forming an integral body with the second electronic device.

[0086] Figure 3 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 3In, as an example, the power supply status detection circuit 350 is implemented based on the CCG2 chip, the second adapter circuit for coupling with the second connector assembly in the second electronic device 320 is implemented based on the CCG3 chip, and the signal switch circuit 370 is implemented based on the signal switch chip UM7222. The power supply control circuit 360 can be implemented using any control device, such as a single-chip microcomputer, a programmable logic device, a microprocessor, an FPGA, etc. In one embodiment, the power supply control circuit 360 is implemented based on a control device with USB host capability. The above chips are only listed to explain the implementation examples of the connector in detail, and 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. For example, the signal switch circuit 370 can also be implemented using any other signal switch device, and the power supply status detection circuit and the second adapter circuit of the second electronic device can also be implemented based on any electronic device that can implement the PD protocol and data transmission functions. In addition, Figure 3 Only the connection relationships used to illustrate the solutions of the present disclosure are illustrated, while other devices or connection relationships are omitted.

[0087] like Figure 3 As shown, the power supply 330 can be coupled to the third connector component 340 through the power connector component. The data terminal of the third connector component 340 is connected to the CC line of the CCG2 chip in the power supply state detection circuit 350 to transmit a power connection message to CCG2. The I2C data port of the power supply state detection circuit 350 is connected to the data receiving port of the power supply control circuit 360 to send the power connection message to the power supply control circuit 360. The switch control port of the power supply control circuit 360 is connected to the switch state control port of the signal switch circuit 370. and S to control the switch state of the signal switch circuit 370. The first data ports HSD1+ and HSD1- of the signal switch circuit 370 are connected to the first electronic device 310 via the first data line portion, the second data ports HSD2+ and HSD2- are connected to the second electronic device 320 of the second electronic device via the first data line, and the third data ports D+ and D- are connected to the data output port of the power supply control circuit 360.

[0088] The power supply control circuit 360 controls the switch state by The power supply control circuit 360 outputs a switch state control signal to control the state of the signal switch circuit 370, so that when the power supply 330 is not detected to be connected, the first data port HSD1+ and HSD1- are connected to the second data port HSD2+ and HSD2-, and when the power supply 330 is detected to be connected, the second data port HSD2+ and HSD2- are connected to the third data port D+ and D-, so that the power supply control circuit 360 can send a power connection message to the second electronic device 320 via the first data line. The power supply control circuit 360 can also connect the first data port HSD1+ and HSD1- with the third data port D+ and D-, so that the power supply control circuit 360 can send a power connection message to the first electronic device 310 via the first data line. Then, after sending the power message to the first electronic device 310 or the second electronic device 320, the second data port HSD2+ and HSD2- are connected to the first data port HSD1+ and HSD1-.

[0089] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the signal transmitted between the power supply state detection circuit 350 and the power supply control circuit 360 is in the I2C signal format, and when the power supply connection message is sent, a USB format message (such as a USB 2.0 message) is sent. Therefore, the power supply control circuit 360 can convert the received I2C format message into a USB format message and send it to the second electronic device 320 via the first data line.

[0090] Figure 4 is a flow chart of a method for controlling charging using a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] like Figure 4 As shown, at blocks 402 and 404, it is detected whether the third connector assembly is coupled to a power source.

[0092] When it is not detected that the third connector component is coupled to the power source, at block 406 , the first connector component is controlled to be coupled to the second connector component via the first data line.

[0093] When it is detected that the third connector component is coupled to the power source, at block 408, the first connector component is controlled to couple to the third connector component via the first data line to send a power connection message to the first electronic device via the first data line, or the second connector component is controlled to couple to the third connector component via the first data line to send a power connection message to the second electronic device via the first data line. The power connection message is used to indicate that the third connector component is coupled to the power source.

[0094] Reference above Figures 1 to 4, the embodiments of the connector and the method for controlling power supply using the connector according to the present disclosure are described. Each embodiment in this specification is described in a progressive manner, and the same and similar parts between the embodiments are referenced to each other.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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 second connector assembly, configured to couple with the second electronic device; a third connector assembly, configured to couple with the power source; a power cord coupled to the first connector assembly, the second connector assembly, and the third connector assembly; a first data line for operably coupling any two of the first connector component, the second connector component, and the third connector component via a signal switching circuit; as well as The signal switching circuit is configured as follows: detecting whether the third connector assembly is coupled to the power source; When the third connector component is not detected to be coupled to the power source, controlling the first connector component to be coupled to the second connector component via the first data line; as well as When it is detected that the third connector component is coupled to the power source: Controlling the first connector component to couple with the third connector component via the first data line, so as to send a power connection message to the first electronic device via the first data line; or controlling the second connector component to couple with the third connector component via the first data line, so as to send a power connection message to the second electronic device via the first data line, When the third connector component is not detected to be coupled to the power source, the first electronic device supplies power to the second electronic device via the power cord; when the third connector component is detected to be coupled to the power source, the power source supplies power to the second electronic device; and the power connection message is used to indicate that the third connector component is coupled to the power source.

2. The connector according to claim 1, further comprising: The second data line couples the first connector component to the second connector component.

3. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The signal switching circuit is further configured as: After sending a power connection message to the first electronic device or the second electronic device via the first data line, the first connector component is controlled to be coupled to the second connector component via the first data line.

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

5. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The power line is operably coupled to the third connector assembly via the signal switching circuit, and the signal switching circuit is further configured to: After sending a power connection message to the first electronic device or the second electronic device via the first data line, acquiring a power supply status of the first electronic device to the second electronic device via the power line; as well as In response to the first electronic device stopping supplying power to the second electronic device via the power line, the third connector assembly is coupled to the power line so that the power source supplies power to the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

6. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first connector assembly and the second connector assembly are of the same type.

7. The connector according to claim 6, 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.

8. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The connector is fixed to the second connector assembly and the second electronic device in an undetachable manner.

9. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The signal switching circuit is arranged close to the first connector component or the second connector component.

10. The connector according to claim 2, wherein: The first data line, the second data line and the power line are integrated into a connection cable.

11. The connector according to claim 10, wherein: The connection cable is formed as a branch type connection cable, the first connector component is located at one end of the connection cable, the second connector component is located at the other end of the connection cable, and the third connector component is located at the branch end of the connection cable.

12. 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.

13. The connector according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein: The signal switching circuit is arranged in the connection cable.

14. 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.

15. A method for controlling power supply using the connector according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising: detecting whether the third connector assembly is coupled to the power source; When the third connector component is not detected to be coupled to the power source, controlling the first connector component to be coupled to the second connector component via the first data line; as well as When it is detected that the third connector component is coupled to the power source: Controlling the first connector component to couple with the third connector component via the first data line, so as to send a power connection message to the first electronic device via the first data line; or controlling the second connector component to couple with the third connector component via the first data line, so as to send a power connection message to the second electronic device via the first data line, The power connection message is used to indicate that the third connector component is coupled to the power source.

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