System and method for controlling communication mode in electronic device

Abstract

A method of providing data communication between a first device and a second device includes establishing, via a USB-type interface, a first communication link with a downstream device connected to the second device using a first mode, wherein in the first mode the USB-type interface utilizes a first set of USB communication channels; establishing, via a USB-C port, a second communication link with the first device using a fallback mode, wherein the fallback mode utilizes the first set of USB communication channels; and in accordance with establishing the second communication link, changing a mode of the first communication link such that the first communication link does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Background and related technologies

[0002] Computing devices include one or more connection ports to allow cables or wires to be connected between the computing device and power supplies, input devices, video displays, storage devices, audio output components, other peripherals, and other external resources such as network communications. Connection ports are typically backward compatible to allow the use of older communication modes when newer communication modes are unavailable. The availability of data channels limits the availability of certain communication modes. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some embodiments, a method of providing data communication between a first device and a second device includes performing the following operations at the second device, wherein the second device has a USB component including a USB-C port and one or more additional USB-type interfaces: establishing a first communication link with a downstream device via the USB-type interface using a first mode, wherein in the first mode the USB-type interface utilizes a first set of USB communication channels; establishing a second communication link with the first device via the USB-C port using an alternate mode, wherein the alternate mode utilizes the first set of USB communication channels; and changing the mode of the first communication link according to the establishment of the second communication link so that the first communication link does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels.

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, a selection of concepts also described in the detailed embodiments. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following description, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the teachings herein. The features and advantages of this disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. The features of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by practice of this disclosure as set forth below. Attached Figure Description

[0006] To describe how the features listed above and others of this disclosure can be obtained, a more specific description will be presented by reference to particular embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. For better understanding, the same elements have been designated by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings. Although some drawings may be schematic or exaggerated representations of concepts, at least some drawings are drawn to scale. It will be understood that the drawings depict some exemplary embodiments, which will be described and explained with additional features and details using the drawings, in which:

[0007] Figure 1 This is a system diagram of a communication system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0008] Figure 2 According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a communication system;

[0009] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing data communication between a master device and a downstream device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0010] Figure 4 This is a front view of a USB-type interface according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Specific implementation

[0012] This disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for improving the reliability and functionality of connection ports in electronic devices. More specifically, electronic devices utilizing Universal Serial Bus (USB) type connections and shared data channels between these connections may experience communication limitations when utilizing all available data channels of a single type in a connection's communication mode. In some embodiments, a USB connection using that first set of data channels may lose communication or become unusable for some other reason when another connection is agreed to use another port using all data channels in a first set of data channels. In some embodiments, a USB connection using that first set of data channels (e.g., the same data channels) may be isolated when a DisplayPort (DP) connection is agreed to use another connection using all data channels in a first set of data channels (e.g., differential data channels). In some embodiments, a USB connection using that first set of data channels may be isolated when a Thunderbolt connection is agreed to use another port using all data channels in a first set of data channels. Because a backup communication mode (backup mode) can exclusively occupy all associated data channels, these data channels cannot be used to communicate with other connections. In some embodiments, once a data channel is assigned to a backup mode connection, the electronic device has no communication path to other downstream devices. In some embodiments, the alternative modes include DP connection, HD Media Interface (HDMI) connection, Thunderbolt connection, Mobile HD Link (MHL) connection, or PCI high-speed connection.

[0013] In some embodiments, the device has a USB component including a USB-C port and one or more additional USB-type interfaces. In some embodiments, the USB-type interface is an outward connection that houses a USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, or other USB format connector. In some embodiments, the USB-type interface is an internal connection that may or may not be hardwired to the electronic components of the device.

[0014] In some embodiments, the USB-C port has a differential data channel shared with at least one other USB Type interface for communication modes. For example, the USB-C port and the USB3 port each have a USB3 format differential data channel (i.e., pairs of wires) and use the USB3 data channel for communication between devices connected to the port. In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type interface share data channels for DP data communication and for USB 3.x data communication. In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type interface share data channels for Thunderbolt and for USB 3.x data communication. In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type interface share data channels for DisplayPort and for Thunderbolt data communication. When the USB-C port allocates all USB3 data channels to DisplayPort standby mode, no USB3 data channels are available for communication with those USB Type interfaces in the device, and communication with downstream devices communicating via the USB3 communication link may be lost.

[0015] In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type-A interface share four data channels (e.g., the USB Type-A interface is also a USB-C port and each has four USB 3 differential data channels). In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type-A interface share fewer than four data channels (e.g., the USB Type-A interface is a USB-A 3.x port and has two USB 3 differential data channels). In some embodiments, the spare mode of the USB-C port uses all the shared data channels (e.g., the spare mode of the USB-C port uses all four USB 3 differential data channels of the USB-C port). In some embodiments, the spare mode of the USB-C port uses four shared data channels.

[0016] In some embodiments, a communication system for transmitting data includes a first device and a second device connected via a USB connection, and a downstream device also communicating with the second device via a USB connection. In some embodiments, the first device is a master device and the second device is a slave device for recording, storing, receiving, presenting, displaying, or playing the transmitted data. In some embodiments, the slave device includes a display or other components for presenting data received from the master device. For example, the master device may transmit video data to the slave device for display on the display of the slave device. In some embodiments, the slave device includes a speaker or other components for playing data received from the master device. In some embodiments, the slave device includes a memory module or other storage device for storing data received from the master device.

[0017] In some embodiments, the master device is connected to the slave device via a wired connection. In some embodiments, the wired connection is an optional cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is a USB-C cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is connected to the master device via a non-USB-C connection (such as a DisplayPort connection or a USB connection that is not USB-C), and the cable is connected to the slave device via a USB-C connection.

[0018] In some embodiments, the downstream device is connected to the secondary device via a wired connection. In some embodiments, the wired connection is an optional cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is a USB-C format cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is a USB-A format cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is a USB-B format cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is another USB format cable.

[0019] Figure 1 An embodiment of a communication system 100 between a master device 102 and a slave device 104 is illustrated. In some embodiments, the slave device 104 includes a display 106 that can display video data transmitted from the master device 102 to the slave device 104 via a USB-C connection. In some embodiments, the USB-C connection is a wired connection, such as... Figure 1 The USB-C cable 108 is shown inserted into the USB-C port 110 of the secondary device 104.

[0020] In some embodiments, a master device connects to a slave device via a wireless connection. In some embodiments, the wireless connection includes at least one selectively connectable transceiver. In some embodiments, a first wireless transceiver is selectively connected to the master device, and a second wireless transceiver is selectively connected to the slave device to facilitate data communication therebetween. In some embodiments, the master device includes an integrated transceiver and communicates wirelessly with the wireless transceiver selectively connected to the slave device.

[0021] In some embodiments, the secondary device has a USB-C port for accommodating a cable or transceiver. In some embodiments, the USB-C port is a separate port within the secondary device. In some embodiments, the USB-C port is part of a USB hub. In some embodiments, the secondary device includes a USB hub comprising a plurality of USB-type interfaces separate from the USB-C port. In some embodiments, the secondary device's USB-C port and at least one USB-type interface share a first set of data channels via a multiplexer, as will be described in more detail. For example, the secondary device's USB-C port and USB hub may share data channels via a multiplexer.

[0022] In some embodiments, the downstream device is connected to the USB interface of the secondary device. In some embodiments, the downstream device is selectively connected to the USB interface via a wired connection. In some embodiments, the downstream device is selectively connected to the USB interface via a hardwired connection. In some embodiments, the downstream device is connected via a wireless transceiver selectively connected to the USB interface. In some embodiments, the downstream device is connected via a hardwired wireless transceiver to the USB interface. In some embodiments, the downstream device is a camera or other video capture device. In some embodiments, the downstream device is a microphone or other audio capture device. In some embodiments, the downstream device is a keyboard or other input device. In some embodiments, the downstream device is a solid-state drive or other storage device.

[0023] Refer again Figure 1 The secondary device 104 includes a hub 112 having multiple USB ports 114. In some embodiments, the communication system 100 includes a downstream device 116 of a camera connected to one of the USB ports 114 of the hub 112 to provide data communication with the secondary device 104, such as for video conferencing using a display 106.

[0024] In some embodiments, when a downstream device is communicating with electronic components of a secondary device or other downstream devices using USB 3.x communication mode, the downstream device uses a first set of data channels. When the first set of data channels is shared with a USB-C port and thus with communication between the downstream device and the host device, both the USB-C port and the USB interface connected to the downstream device use the first set of data channels. When a data connection from the host device to the secondary device via the USB-C port requires the use of all data channels in the first set of data channels and / or there are not enough remaining data channels in the first set for the downstream device connected to the USB interface to continue communicating with the host device via USB 3.x communication mode, the downstream device and / or the USB interface may switch to using a second set of data channels in USB 2.x communication mode or another communication mode using other data communication hardware. In at least one embodiment, the host device and the secondary device establish a four-channel DP spare mode to allocate all data channels in the first set of data channels of the USB-C port in the secondary device. The secondary device sends a signal or command to switch the communication mode of the downstream device and / or the USB interface to use the second set of data channels.

[0025] In some embodiments, the secondary devices connected to the master device include a microcontroller and a multiplexer (MUX). Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The auxiliary device 104 facilitates the connection between the upstream device (e.g., the main device 102) and the downstream device (e.g., the downstream device 116, i.e.) Figure 1 This is a schematic system diagram of the data communication components for a camera. Microcontroller 118 communicates with USB-C port 110 to determine what type of master device 102 is connected to USB-C port 110 and to determine the capabilities of master device 102. In some embodiments, microcontroller 118 is a power supply controller that determines the power and bandwidth requirements of both upstream and downstream devices connected to slave device 104.

[0026] The microcontroller 118 also communicates with the MUX 120. The MUX 120 allows a first set of data channels 122 to be allocated among available ports and / or connections using that first set of data channels 122. In some embodiments, the MUX 120 may allocate channels 122 one by one to one or more ports 114. In some embodiments, the MUX 120 may allocate channels 122 two at a time to one or more ports 114. In some embodiments, the MUX 120 may allocate channels 122 four at a time to one or more ports 114. In some embodiments, the MUX 120 may allocate all available channels 122 in the first set to a single port 114. For example, additional data channels allow for increased bandwidth for that port, and some communication modes (such as Thunderbolt 3) can only reach maximum speed if all data channels are allocated to that port.

[0027] While the embodiments and examples described herein refer to a shared data channel between USB 3.x communication mode and DP or Thunderbolt communication mode, it should be understood that the systems and methods described herein can be associated with any USB-type interface that shares a data channel between ports and has multiple sets of data channels.

[0028] In some embodiments, when a downstream device 116 is using USB 3.x communication mode on a shared data channel 122, the downstream device 116 will experience a communication interruption with the host device 102 and / or be isolated by the MUX 120, which allocates data channels to either quad-channel DP standby mode or Thunderbolt 3 standby mode. In some embodiments, a first downstream device connected to the USB hub is using USB 3.x communication mode to communicate with the host device 102, and a second downstream device connected to the USB hub is using USB 2.x communication mode to communicate with the host device 102. USB 2.x uses a second set of data channels different from those used for USB 3.x communication mode, DisplayPort standby mode, and Thunderbolt 3 standby mode. Therefore, the MUX's allocation of the first set of data channels on the USB-C port for quad-channel DP standby mode does not interfere with the communication of the second downstream device using USB 2.x on the second set of data channels. In some embodiments, the first downstream device using USB 3.x communication mode on the first set of data channels experiences an interruption unless the communication mode is changed.

[0029] In some embodiments, the microcontroller or other processor of the secondary device changes the communication mode of the first downstream device to another communication mode (e.g., USB 2.x communication mode) that does not use the first set of data channels before the MUX allocates the first set of data channels to the USB-C port. In some embodiments, the change of communication mode interrupts communication between the first and downstream devices, but this ensures that communication is maintained and the first downstream device is not isolated. In some examples, the second downstream device is unaffected by the MUX's allocation of the first set of data channels.

[0030] In some embodiments, the microcontroller or other processor of the secondary device determines which devices are connected to the secondary device's USB interface. In some examples, the downstream device is a downstream USB hub with multiple USB interfaces. In some embodiments, the secondary device detects one or more second downstream devices connected to the downstream USB hub. In some embodiments, the secondary device may change the communication mode of at least one second downstream device and / or the downstream hub to a communication mode that does not use the first set of data channels.

[0031] Refer again Figure 2 The secondary device 104 may allocate data channel 122 based on the determined capabilities of the primary device 102 connected to the USB-C port 110. In some embodiments, the microcontroller 118 communicates with the MUX 120 to selectively allocate data channel 122 of the USB-C port 110 between the USB hub 112 and / or (e.g.) USB-type interfaces 114 and the DP processor 124. The DP processor 124 may receive video information through data channel 122 and display the video information on the display 106 of the secondary device 104. In some embodiments, the MUX 120 selectively allocates data channel 122 between the USB hub 112 and / or (e.g.) USB-type interfaces 114 and other components and / or processors, depending on the determined capabilities, data types, available alternative modes, or combinations thereof, of the primary device 102 and the USB-C port 110 connection.

[0032] In some embodiments, in four-channel DP standby mode, the microcontroller instructs the MUX to allocate all four data channels to the DP processor to display video information from the master device. In some embodiments, in four-channel Thunderbolt 3 standby mode, the microcontroller instructs the MUX to allocate all four data channels to another component of the slave device to process data from the master device at the maximum bandwidth of Thunderbolt 3.

[0033] In some embodiments, the microcontroller 118 is electrically connected to and communicates data with the storage device 125. In some embodiments, the storage device 125 stores instructions thereon that cause the secondary device 104 to perform any embodiment of the methods described herein.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method 226 for providing data communication between a first device and a downstream device. In some embodiments, the method 226 for providing data communication between a first device and a second device includes preventing and / or limiting interruptions to data communication between downstream devices or nodes. In some embodiments, preventing and / or limiting interruptions to data communication between downstream nodes includes determining the communication mode of (a) downstream nodes and changing the communication mode of the downstream nodes. In some embodiments, preventing and / or limiting interruptions to data communication between downstream nodes includes determining the communication mode of (a) downstream nodes and changing the communication mode of a first downstream node without changing the communication mode of a second downstream node.

[0035] In some embodiments, method 226 for providing data communication between a first device and a downstream device includes establishing (228) a first communication link with the downstream device and establishing (230) a second communication link with the first device. Each communication link is connected to the downstream device via a USB connection. In some embodiments, the first communication link is via a USB-type interface, and the second communication link is via a USB-C port. The first device and the downstream device can communicate with each other via a USB connection of the downstream device. In some embodiments, the first communication link transmits and receives data on a first set of USB communication channels of the USB-type interface via a first communication mode. In some embodiments, the second communication link transmits and receives data on the same USB communication channel of the USB-C port. In some embodiments, both the first communication mode and the backup mode use USB3 communication channels. In some embodiments, the first communication mode is a USB 3.1 data communication mode. In some embodiments, the first communication mode is a USB 2.1 data communication mode. In some embodiments, the first communication mode is a Thunderbolt data communication mode or other backup mode.

[0036] In some embodiments, the downstream node is a USB-type interface, such as a USB-A port, USB-B port, mini USB port, or micro USB port. In some embodiments, the downstream node is a downstream device connected to the USB-type interface. In at least one embodiment, the downstream device connected to the USB-type interface is communicating via USB 3.2 communication mode on a first set of USB communication channels, and a USB-C port in standby mode is also communicating on the first set of USB communication channels.

[0037] In some embodiments, establishing a second communication link via a USB-C port using a backup mode includes switching the USB-C port to a backup mode that uses a first set of USB communication or data channels. In some embodiments, the backup mode uses all data channels in the first set of USB data channels of the USB-C port, such as a four-channel DP backup mode, a four-channel Thunderbolt backup mode, a four-channel HDMI backup mode, a four-channel MHL backup mode, a four-channel PCI high-speed backup mode, or other backup modes. In some embodiments, establishing a second communication link via a USB-C port in backup mode includes determining the communication capabilities and / or requirements of the first device. In some embodiments, the microcontroller of the second device communicates with the microcontroller of the first device to determine the capabilities and / or requirements of the first device and sets the communication mode of the USB-C port to backup mode based at least in part on the communication with the first device. In some embodiments, the power supply controller of the second device communicates with the power supply controller of the first device to determine the capabilities and / or requirements of the first device and sets the communication mode of the USB-C port to backup mode based at least in part on the communication with the first device.

[0038] In some embodiments, the method further includes changing (232) the first communication mode of the first communication link, regardless of whether one or more nodes downstream of the USB-C port in the second device are communicating via the first set of USB communication channels.

[0039] In some embodiments, downstream devices or nodes are communicating via a second set of USB communication channels and can continue using the second set of USB communication channels without interruption due to switching from the first set of USB communication channels. Therefore, in some embodiments, the method includes not sending signals to downstream nodes that are not communicating via the first set of USB communication channels and / or not altering the communication of those downstream nodes. In some embodiments, downstream nodes are communicating via a USB 2.x or USB 1.x communication mode using data channels independent of those used in USB 3.x, DP, or Thunderbolt 3 standby modes.

[0040] In some embodiments, when a downstream device or node is communicating via the first set of USB communication channels, the method includes changing (234) the mode of the downstream node so that the node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels. In a conventional system, allowing a downstream node to continue attempting to use the first set of USB communication channels after switching its USB-C port to a standby mode using all communication channels in the first set of USB communication channels can isolate the downstream node and result in a loss of communication with the downstream node. In some embodiments, the mode of the downstream device or node is changed so that the node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels before setting its USB-C port to standby mode. In some embodiments, the mode of the downstream device or node is changed so that the node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels simultaneously with setting its USB-C port to standby mode.

[0041] In some embodiments, changing the mode of a downstream device or node includes sending a signal to the downstream device to agree on a change in communication mode. In some embodiments, changing the mode of a downstream node includes cycling power on the USB interface to force a new agreement on the communication mode between the downstream device and the secondary device. In some embodiments, the signal to the downstream node includes providing a signal to switch the VBUS_EN of the USB interface. In some embodiments, changing the mode includes sending a signal to switch VBUS_EN for at least 200 milliseconds. In some embodiments, changing the mode includes deactivating the VBUS_EN signal for at least 200 milliseconds and then reactivating the VBUS_EN signal. In some embodiments, changing the communication mode of a first communication link includes changing the mode to a slower data connection. For example, the USB 3.2 2x2 communication mode can transmit data at a maximum of 20 Gbps, while the high-speed USB 2.0 can transmit data at a maximum of 480 Mbps.

[0042] In having such as Figure 4In some embodiments of the selectively connectable port shown, the USB3-A port 336 includes at least a VBUS pin 338, a data (-) pin 340, a data (+) pin 342, and a ground pin 344, as well as high-speed wire connections including StdA_SSRx-346, StdA_SCRx+348, a ground drain 350, StdASSTx-352, and StdA_SSSTx+354 wires. Signals for cyclically powering the USB interface and / or for renegotiating the communication mode with the USB interface to downstream devices can be sent on the VBUS pin 338 (e.g., a power pin). In some embodiments, signals to downstream devices to renegotiate the communication mode with the USB interface can be sent on the data pins 340, 342. In some embodiments, the mode of the downstream node is changed by cyclically powering the root hub of the USB interface, which in turn forces the negotiation of the communication mode between the downstream device and the USB interface.

[0043] Industrial applicability

[0044] This disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for improving the reliability and functionality of connection ports in electronic devices. More specifically, electronic devices utilizing Universal Serial Bus (USB) type connections and shared data channels may experience communication limitations when a communication mode utilizes all available data channels of a single type. In some embodiments, when another connection is agreed to use all data channels in a first set of data channels, a USB connection using that first set of data channels may lose communication or become unusable for some other reason. In some embodiments, when a display port connection is agreed to use all data channels in a first set of data channels (e.g., a USB3 differential data channel), a USB connection using that first set of data channels (e.g., the same USB3 differential data channel) may be isolated. In some embodiments, when a Thunderbolt connection is agreed to use all data channels in a first set of data channels, a USB connection using that first set of data channels may be isolated. Because a backup communication mode (backup mode) can exclusively use all associated data channels, these data channels cannot be used to communicate with other connections. In some embodiments, once a data channel is allocated to a backup mode connection, the electronic device has no communication path to other downstream devices.

[0045] In some embodiments, the device has a USB component including a USB-C port and one or more additional USB-type interfaces. In some embodiments, the USB-type interface is an outward connection that houses a USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, or other USB format connector. In some embodiments, the USB-type interface is an internal connection that may or may not be hardwired to the electronic components of the device.

[0046] In some embodiments, the USB-C port has a differential data channel shared with at least one other USB Type interface for use in communication modes. For example, the USB-C port and the USB3 port each have four USB3 format differential data channels (i.e., pairs of wires) and use the USB3 data channels for communication between devices connected to the port. In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type interface share data channels for display ports and for USB 3.x data communication. In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type interface share data channels for Thunderbolt and for USB 3.x data communication. In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type interface share data channels for display ports and for Thunderbolt data communication. When the USB-C port allocates all USB3 data channels to the display port in standby mode, no USB3 data channels are available for communication with those USB Type interfaces in the device, and communication with downstream devices communicating via the USB3 communication link may be lost.

[0047] In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type-A interface share four data channels (e.g., the USB Type-A interface is also a USB-C port and each has four USB 3 differential data channels). In some embodiments, the USB-C port and the USB Type-A interface share fewer than four data channels (e.g., the USB Type-A interface is a USB-A 3.x port and has two USB 3 differential data channels). In some embodiments, the spare mode of the USB-C port uses all the shared data channels (e.g., the spare mode of the USB-C port uses all four USB 3 differential data channels of the USB-C port). In some embodiments, the spare mode of the USB-C port uses four shared data channels.

[0048] In some embodiments, a communication system for transmitting data includes a first device and a second device connected via a USB connection, and a downstream device also communicating with the second device via a USB connection. In some embodiments, the first device is a master device and the second device is a slave device for recording, storing, receiving, presenting, displaying, or playing the transmitted data. In some embodiments, the slave device includes a display or other components for presenting data received from the master device. For example, the master device may transmit video data to the slave device for display on the display of the slave device. In some embodiments, the slave device includes a speaker or other components for playing data received from the master device. In some embodiments, the slave device includes a memory module or other storage device for storing data received from the master device.

[0049] In some embodiments, the master device is connected to the slave device via a wired connection. In some embodiments, the wired connection is an optional cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is a USB-C cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is connected to the master device via a non-USB-C connection (such as a DisplayPort connection or a USB connection that is not USB-C), and the cable is connected to the slave device via a USB-C connection.

[0050] In some embodiments, the downstream device is connected to the secondary device via a wired connection. In some embodiments, the wired connection is an optional cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is a USB-C format cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is a USB-A format cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is a USB-B format cable. In some embodiments, the wired connection is another USB format cable.

[0051] In some embodiments, a master device connects to a slave device via a wireless connection. In some embodiments, the wireless connection includes at least one selectively connectable transceiver. In some embodiments, a first wireless transceiver is selectively connected to the master device, and a second wireless transceiver is selectively connected to the slave device to facilitate data communication therebetween. In some embodiments, the master device includes an integrated transceiver and communicates wirelessly with the wireless transceiver selectively connected to the slave device.

[0052] In some embodiments, the secondary device has a USB-C port for accommodating a cable or transceiver. In some embodiments, the USB-C port is a separate port within the secondary device. In some embodiments, the USB-C port is part of a USB hub. In some embodiments, the secondary device includes a USB hub comprising a plurality of USB-type interfaces separate from the USB-C port. In some embodiments, the secondary device's USB-C port and at least one USB-type interface share a first set of data channels via a multiplexer, as will be described in more detail. For example, the secondary device's USB-C port and USB hub may share data channels via a multiplexer.

[0053] In some embodiments, the downstream device is connected to the USB interface of the secondary device. In some embodiments, the downstream device is selectively connected to the USB interface via a wired connection. In some embodiments, the downstream device is selectively connected to the USB interface via a hardwired connection. In some embodiments, the downstream device is connected via a wireless transceiver selectively connected to the USB interface. In some embodiments, the downstream device is connected via a hardwired wireless transceiver to the USB interface. In some embodiments, the downstream device is a camera or other video capture device. In some embodiments, the downstream device is a microphone or other audio capture device. In some embodiments, the downstream device is a keyboard or other input device. In some embodiments, the downstream device is a solid-state drive or other storage device.

[0054] In some embodiments, when a downstream device is communicating with electronic components of a secondary device or other downstream devices using USB 3.x communication mode, the downstream device uses a first set of data channels. When the first set of data channels is shared with a USB-C port and thus with communication between the downstream device and the host device, both the USB-C port and the USB interface connected to the downstream device use the first set of data channels. When a data connection from the host device to the secondary device via the USB-C port requires the use of all data channels in the first set of data channels and / or there are not enough remaining data channels in the first set for the downstream device connected to the USB interface to continue communicating with the host device via USB 3.x communication mode, the downstream device and / or the USB interface may switch to using a second set of data channels in USB 2.x communication mode or other data communication hardware. In at least one embodiment, the host device and the secondary device establish a four-channel DP spare mode to allocate all data channels in the first set of data channels of the USB-C port in the secondary device. The secondary device sends a signal or command to switch the communication mode of the downstream device and / or the USB interface to use the second set of data channels.

[0055] In some embodiments, the secondary device connected to the master device includes a microcontroller and a multiplexer (MUX). The microcontroller communicates with the USB-C port to determine what type of master device is connected to the USB-C port and to determine the capabilities of the master device. In some embodiments, the microcontroller is a power controller that determines the power and bandwidth requirements of both the upstream and downstream devices connected to the secondary device.

[0056] The microcontroller also communicates with the MUX. The MUX allows a first set of data channels to be allocated among available ports and / or connections using that first set of data channels. In some embodiments, the MUX may allocate channels one by one to one or more ports. In some embodiments, the MUX may allocate channels two at a time to one or more ports. In some embodiments, the MUX may allocate channels four at a time to one or more ports. In some embodiments, the MUX may allocate all available channels in the first set to a single port. For example, additional data channels allow for increased bandwidth for that port, and some communication modes (such as Thunderbolt 3) only reach maximum speed when all data channels are allocated to that port.

[0057] While the embodiments and examples described herein refer to a shared data channel between USB 3.x communication mode and DP or Thunderbolt communication mode, it should be understood that the systems and methods described herein can be associated with any USB-type interface that shares a data channel between ports and has multiple sets of data channels.

[0058] In some embodiments, when a downstream device is using USB 3.x communication mode on a shared data channel, the downstream device will experience a communication interruption with the host device and / or be isolated by the MUX, which allocates data channels to quad-channel DP standby mode or Thunderbolt 3 standby mode. In some embodiments, a first downstream device connected to the USB hub is using USB 3.x communication mode to communicate with the host device, and a second downstream device connected to the USB hub is using USB 2.x communication mode to communicate. USB 2.x uses a second set of data channels different from those used for USB 3.x communication mode, DisplayPort standby mode, and Thunderbolt 3 standby mode. Therefore, the MUX's allocation of the first set of data channels of the USB-C port for quad-channel DP standby mode does not interfere with the communication of the second downstream device using USB 2.x on the second set of data channels. In some embodiments, the first downstream device using USB 3.x communication mode on the first set of data channels experiences an interruption unless the communication mode is changed.

[0059] In some embodiments, the microcontroller or other processor of the secondary device changes the communication mode of the first downstream device to another communication mode (e.g., USB 2.x communication mode) that does not use the first set of data channels before the MUX allocates the first set of data channels to the USB-C port. In some embodiments, the change of communication mode interrupts communication between the first and downstream devices, but this ensures that communication is maintained and the first downstream device is not isolated. In some examples, the second downstream device is unaffected by the MUX's allocation of the first set of data channels.

[0060] In some embodiments, the microcontroller or other processor of the secondary device determines which devices are connected to the secondary device's USB interface. In some examples, the downstream device is a downstream USB hub with multiple USB interfaces. In some embodiments, the secondary device detects one or more second downstream devices connected to the downstream USB hub. In some embodiments, the secondary device may change the communication mode of at least one second downstream device and / or the downstream hub to a communication mode that does not use the first set of data channels.

[0061] The secondary device may allocate a data channel port based on the determined capabilities of the host device connected to the USB-C port. In some embodiments, the microcontroller communicates with the MUX to selectively allocate a data channel of the USB-C port between the USB hub and / or (e.g., USB-type interfaces) and the DP processor. The DP processor can receive video information through the data channel and display the video information on the secondary device's display. In some embodiments, the MUX selectively allocates a data channel between the USB hub and / or (e.g., USB-type interfaces) and other components and / or processors, depending on the determined capabilities, data types, available alternative modes, or combinations thereof, of the host device and the USB-C port connection.

[0062] In some embodiments, in four-channel DP standby mode, the microcontroller instructs the MUX to allocate all four data channels to the DP processor to display video information from the master device. In some embodiments, in four-channel Thunderbolt 3 standby mode, the microcontroller instructs the MUX to allocate all four data channels to another component of the slave device to process data from the master device at the maximum bandwidth of Thunderbolt 3.

[0063] In some embodiments, the microcontroller is electrically connected to and communicates data with a storage device. In some embodiments, the storage device stores instructions thereon that cause the secondary device to perform any embodiment of the methods described herein.

[0064] In some embodiments, a method for providing data communication between a first device and a downstream device includes preventing and / or limiting interruptions to data communication between the downstream device or node. In some embodiments, preventing and / or limiting interruptions to data communication between downstream nodes includes determining the communication modes of the downstream nodes and changing the communication modes of the downstream nodes. In some embodiments, preventing and / or limiting interruptions to data communication between downstream nodes includes determining the communication modes of the downstream nodes and changing the communication mode of a first downstream node without changing the communication mode of a second downstream node.

[0065] In some embodiments, a method for providing data communication between a first device and a downstream device includes

[0066] A first communication link is established (228) with the downstream device, and a second communication link is established (230) with the first device. Each communication link is connected to a secondary device having a USB connection. In some embodiments, the first communication link is via a USB-type interface, and the second communication link is via a USB-C port. The first device and the downstream device can communicate with each other via the USB connection of the secondary device. In some embodiments, the first communication link transmits and receives data on a first set of USB communication channels of the USB-type interface via a first communication mode. In some embodiments, the second communication link transmits and receives data on the same USB communication channel of the USB-C port. In some embodiments, both the first communication mode and the backup mode use USB3 communication channels. In some embodiments, the first communication mode is a USB 3.1 data communication mode. In some embodiments, the first communication mode is a USB 2.1 data communication mode. In some embodiments, the first communication mode is a Thunderbolt data communication mode or other backup mode.

[0067] In some embodiments, the downstream node is a USB-type interface, such as a USB-A port, USB-B port, mini USB port, or micro USB port. In some embodiments, the downstream node is a downstream device connected to the USB-type interface. In at least one embodiment, the downstream device connected to the USB-type interface is communicating via USB 3.2 communication mode on a first set of USB communication channels, and a USB-C port in standby mode is also communicating on the first set of USB communication channels.

[0068] In some embodiments, establishing a second communication link via a USB-C port using a backup mode includes switching the USB-C port to a backup mode that uses a first set of USB communication or data channels. In some embodiments, the backup mode uses all data channels in the first set of USB data channels of the USB-C port, such as a four-channel DP backup mode, a four-channel Thunderbolt backup mode, a four-channel HDMI backup mode, a four-channel MHL backup mode, a four-channel PCI high-speed backup mode, or other backup modes. In some embodiments, establishing a second communication link via a USB-C port in backup mode includes determining the communication capabilities and / or requirements of the first device. In some embodiments, the microcontroller of the second device communicates with the microcontroller of the first device to determine the capabilities and / or requirements of the first device and sets the communication mode of the USB-C port to backup mode based at least in part on the communication with the first device. In some embodiments, the power supply controller of the second device communicates with the power supply controller of the first device to determine the capabilities and / or requirements of the first device and sets the communication mode of the USB-C port to backup mode based at least in part on the communication with the first device.

[0069] In some embodiments, the method further includes changing (232) the first communication mode of the first communication link, regardless of whether one or more nodes downstream of the USB-C port in the second device are communicating via the first set of USB communication channels.

[0070] In some embodiments, downstream devices or nodes are communicating via a second set of USB communication channels and can continue using the second set of USB communication channels without interruption due to switching from the first set of USB communication channels. Therefore, in some embodiments, the method includes not sending signals to downstream nodes that are not communicating via the first set of USB communication channels and / or not altering the communication of those downstream nodes. In some embodiments, downstream nodes are communicating via a USB 2.x or USB 1.x communication mode using data channels independent of those used in USB 3.x, DP, or Thunderbolt 3 standby modes.

[0071] In some embodiments, when a downstream device or node is communicating via the first set of USB communication channels, the method includes changing (234) the mode of the downstream node so that the node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels. In a conventional system, allowing a downstream node to continue attempting to use the first set of USB communication channels after switching its USB-C port to an alternate mode using all of the alternate modes in the first set of USB communication channels can isolate the downstream node and result in a loss of communication with the downstream node. In some embodiments, the mode of the downstream device or node is changed so that the node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels before setting its USB-C port to an alternate mode. In some embodiments, the mode of the downstream device or node is changed so that the node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels simultaneously with setting its USB-C port to an alternate mode.

[0072] In some embodiments, changing the mode of a downstream device or node includes sending a signal to the downstream device to agree on a change in communication mode. In some embodiments, changing the mode of a downstream node includes cycling power on the USB interface to force a new agreement on the communication mode between the downstream device and the secondary device. In some embodiments, the signal to the downstream node includes providing a signal via the VBUS_EN pin of the USB interface to switch the VBUS_EN of the USB interface. In some embodiments, changing the mode includes sending a signal to switch VBUS_EN for at least 200 milliseconds. In some embodiments, changing the mode includes deactivating the VBUS_EN signal for at least 200 milliseconds and then reactivating the VBUS_EN signal. In some embodiments, changing the communication mode of a first communication link includes changing the mode to a slower data connection. For example, USB 3.2 2x2 communication mode can transmit data at a maximum of 20 Gbps, while high-speed USB 2.0 can transmit data at a maximum of 480 Mbps.

[0073] In having such as Figure 4 In some embodiments of the selectively connectable port shown, the USB3-A port 336 includes at least a VBUS pin 338, a data (-) pin 340, a data (+) pin 342, and a ground pin 344, as well as high-speed wire connections including StdA_SSRx-346, StdA_SCRx+348, a ground drain 350, StdASSTx-352, and StdA_SSSTx+354 wires. Signals for cyclically powering the USB interface and / or for renegotiating the communication mode with the USB interface to downstream devices can be sent on the VBUS pin 338 (e.g., a power pin). In some embodiments, signals to downstream devices to renegotiate the communication mode with the USB interface can be sent on the data pins 340, 342. In some embodiments, the mode of a downstream node is changed by cyclically powering the root hub of the USB interface, which in turn forces the negotiation of the communication mode between the downstream device and the USB interface.

[0074] In at least some embodiments, according to this disclosure, interruptions and / or loss of communication with downstream nodes can be limited and / or prevented by actively avoiding conflicts in the use of data channels on the USB-type interface. By determining which devices and / or nodes are sharing the first set of USB communication channels, devices can agree and enter a full-speed standby mode without isolating previously connected downstream devices.

[0075] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for improving the reliability and functionality of connection ports in electronic devices, based on examples provided in at least the following sections:

[0076] 1. A method for providing data communication between a first device (e.g., master device 102) and a downstream device (e.g., downstream device 116), the method comprising:

[0077] The following operations are performed at a second device (e.g., secondary device 104), wherein the second device has a USB component including a USB-C port (110) and one or more additional USB-type interfaces (114):

[0078] A first communication link with the downstream device is established (228) via the USB interface using a first mode, wherein in the first mode the USB interface utilizes a first set of USB communication channels (e.g., data communication channel 122);

[0079] A second communication link (230) with the first device is established via the USB-C port using a backup mode, wherein the backup mode utilizes the first set of USB communication channels; and

[0080] Based on the establishment of the second communication link, the mode of the first communication link is changed (232) so that the first communication link does not communicate through the first set of USB communication channels.

[0081] 2. As described in Section 1, wherein the standby mode communication is Display Port (DP) communication.

[0082] 3. As described in Section 1, wherein the standby mode communication is Thunderbolt 3 communication.

[0083] 4. As described in Section 1, wherein the backup mode communication is HDMI communication mode.

[0084] 5. The method described in any of the preceding subsections further includes allocating a four-channel data connection to the standby mode communication.

[0085] 6. The method as described in any of the preceding subsections, wherein changing the mode of the node includes sending a signal for switching the USB-type interface (e.g., USB-A port 336) via VBUS pin 338.

[0086] 7. The method as described in any of the preceding subsections, wherein changing the mode of the first communication link includes cyclically supplying power to the USB interface.

[0087] 8. The method as described in any of the preceding subsections, wherein changing the mode of the first communication link includes changing the mode to a slower data connection.

[0088] 9. The method as described in any of the preceding subsections, wherein the USB-type interface is part of a primary USB hub, and changing the mode of the first communication link includes not resetting the primary USB hub.

[0089] 10. The method as described in any of the preceding subsections, wherein the downstream device is a downstream USB hub.

[0090] 11. The method as described in section 10, further comprising:

[0091] Determine whether the second node is connected to the downstream USB hub;

[0092] Determine whether the second node is communicating via the first set of USB communication channels; and

[0093] Before changing the mode of the downstream USB hub so that the node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels, change the second mode of the second node so that the second node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels.

[0094] 12. A secondary device (e.g., secondary device 104), comprising:

[0095] USB-C port (110);

[0096] A Universal Serial Bus (USB) hub (112) with multiple ports (114);

[0097] DP processor (124);

[0098] A multiplexer (120) that communicates electrically with the USB-C port, wherein the multiplexer is configured to switch a four-channel data connection (122) between the USB hub and the DP processor;

[0099] A microcontroller (e.g., microcontroller 118) that communicates data with the multiplexer;

[0100] A storage device (125) electrically coupled to the microcontroller stores instructions instructing the microcontroller to perform the method as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0101] 13. The secondary device as described in section 12 further includes a display panel (106) electrically coupled to the DP processor.

[0102] 14. The secondary device as described in section 12, wherein the microcontroller is further configured to determine whether the primary device has the capability of a four-channel display port standby mode.

[0103] 15. A communication system, comprising:

[0104] Main equipment (102);

[0105] The secondary device described in any of sections 12-14; and

[0106] Connect the main device to the USB-C port of the secondary device using the data cable (108).

[0107] The articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to indicate that one or more of the elements are present in the foregoing description. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and indicate that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. Additionally, it will be understood that references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” in this disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the described features. For example, any element described in relation to an embodiment herein may be combined with any element of any other embodiment described herein. Numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values ​​set forth herein are intended to include such values, as well as other values ​​described with the words “about” or “approximately”, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art as covered by embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the values ​​set forth should be interpreted broadly enough to cover values ​​that are at least sufficiently close to those used to perform the desired function or achieve the desired result. The values ​​set forth include at least the variations that would be anticipated in a suitable processing or production process and may include values ​​within 5%, 1%, 0.1%, or 0.01% of the values ​​set forth.

[0108] In view of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will recognize that equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Equivalent constructions including the "device plus function" clause are intended to cover structures described herein as performing said function, including both structural equivalents operating in the same manner and equivalent structures providing the same function. The applicant's explicit intention is that no claim shall invoke a device plus function or other functional statement unless the term 'device for…' appears with the associated function. Every addition, deletion, and modification to the embodiments within the meaning and scope of the claims shall be accepted by the claims.

[0109] It should be understood that any direction or frame of reference described above is only a relative direction or movement. For example, any reference to “front” and “back” or “top” and “bottom” or “left” and “right” merely describes the relative position or movement of the relevant element.

[0110] This disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. Thus, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Changes falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims should be covered by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for providing data communication between a first device and a downstream device, the method comprising: The following operations are performed at a second device, wherein the second device has a USB component including a USB-C port and one or more USB-type interfaces: A first communication link with the downstream device is established using a first mode via one or more additional USB interfaces, wherein the USB interface utilizes a first set of USB communication channels in the first mode; A second communication link with the first device is established via the USB-C port using a backup mode, wherein the backup mode utilizes the first set of USB communication channels; as well as Based on the establishment of the second communication link and the use of the first set of USB communication channels in the backup mode, the mode of the first communication link is changed so that the first communication link does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels.

2. The method as described in claim 1, wherein the standby mode communication is Display Port DP communication.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the standby mode communication is Thunderbolt 3 communication.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the backup mode communication is HDMI communication.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising allocating a four-channel data connection to the standby mode communication.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein changing the mode of the first communication link includes sending a signal to switch the VBUS_EN of the USB-type interface.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein changing the mode of the first communication link includes cyclically supplying power to the USB interface.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein changing the mode of the first communication link includes changing the mode to a slower data connection.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the USB interface is part of a primary USB hub, and changing the mode of the first communication link includes not resetting the primary USB hub.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the downstream device is a downstream USB hub.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: Determine whether the second node is connected to the downstream USB hub; Determine whether the second node is communicating via the first set of USB communication channels; as well as Before changing the mode of the downstream USB hub so that the node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels, the second mode of the second node is changed so that the second node does not communicate via the first set of USB communication channels.

12. An auxiliary device, comprising: USB-C port; A Universal Serial Bus (USB) hub with multiple ports; DP processor; A multiplexer for electrical communication with the USB-C port, wherein the multiplexer is configured to switch a four-channel data connection between the USB hub and the DP processor; A microcontroller that communicates data with the multiplexer; as well as A storage device electrically coupled to the microcontroller, the storage device storing instructions instructing the microcontroller to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The secondary device of claim 12, further comprising a display panel electrically coupled to the DP processor.

14. The secondary device of claim 12, wherein the microcontroller is further configured to determine whether the primary device has the capability of a four-channel display port standby mode.

15. A communication system, comprising: Main equipment; The auxiliary device according to any one of claims 12-14; as well as Connect the main device to the USB-C port of the secondary device via a data cable.

16. A computer system comprising means for performing the method as claimed in any one of claims 1-10.

17. A computer-readable storage medium having instructions that, when executed, cause a machine to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

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