Type-C to four-path HDMI video docking station system and device

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of display equipment interface expansion, and discloses a Type-C to four-path HDMI video docking station system and device, and the system comprises an input module which is used for receiving a Type-C or DisplayPort video signal from a host; the multi-stream transmission distribution module is used for distributing the input video signal into multiple paths, one path is output to the protocol conversion module, and the other path is output to the next-stage multi-stream transmission distribution module as a daisy chain; and the protocol conversion module is used for converting the DisplayPort signal output by the multi-stream transmission distribution module into an HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) signal. A physical link from single-path input to four-path HDMI output is realized in a single docking station through a four-stage cascade chip group, and signal splitting and protocol conversion are synchronously completed at each stage, so that a common HDMI display is directly accessed to a system, a four-screen independent display function is realized through pure hardware, and the compatibility and expansion capability of common display equipment are improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the field of display device interface expansion, in particular to a Type-C to four-way HDMI video expansion dock system and device. BACKGROUND

[0002] A Type-C to four-way HDMI video expansion dock is a hardware device that realizes multi-way video expansion through a single Type-C interface, converts the Type-C or DisplayPort video signal of a host, such as a notebook computer or tablet computer, into multiple independent HDMI output signals, and drives multiple displays to work synchronously. Current multi-screen expansion solutions mainly rely on special displays that support the MST function, that is, the user needs to connect the host to the first MST display, and then connect subsequent MST displays in a daisy chain through the DP output port of the display.

[0003] However, in the current technology, ordinary HDMI displays cannot access video for expansion due to the lack of MST function, thereby limiting the compatibility and expansion capability of ordinary display devices. SUMMARY

[0004] To overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, the present application provides a Type-C to four-way HDMI video expansion dock system and device, which solves the compatibility problem of ordinary HDMI displays that cannot access the multi-screen expansion system due to physical interface and protocol restrictions.

[0005] To achieve the above purpose, the present application realizes the following technical scheme: a Type-C to four-way HDMI video expansion dock system, comprising: an input module for receiving Type-C or DisplayPort video signals from a host; a multi-stream transmission distribution module for distributing the input video signals into multiple streams, one of which is output to a protocol conversion module, and the other is output to a next-level multi-stream transmission distribution module as a daisy chain; a protocol conversion module for converting the DisplayPort signal output by the multi-stream transmission distribution module into an HDMI signal; an output module connected to the protocol conversion module for outputting the HDMI signal to an external display; wherein the multi-stream transmission distribution module and the protocol conversion module are sequentially cascaded and support up to four-way HDMI video output.

[0006] Through the technical scheme, the four-level hard connection multi-stream transmission distribution module and the protocol conversion module are sequentially cascaded to build a physical level signal processing link in a single docking station, the input video signal is split into a main path signal and a daisy chain signal through the first-level distribution module, and the subsequent modules repeat the process synchronously, and then four independent DisplayPort signals are output through the four-level link, and the signals are converted into HDMI signals through the corresponding protocol conversion module to output, so that the complete expansion function of single input and four HDMI outputs is realized in pure hardware form, and the ordinary HDMI display can be directly connected to the multi-screen system without built-in special chips or protocol support.

[0007] Preferably, the input module receives the video signal output by the host through the Type-C DisplayPort Alt mode.

[0008] Preferably, the multi-stream transmission distribution module is used to support a maximum of 1600M or 4K 60Hz DCLK input.

[0009] Preferably, when the four external HDMI displays are connected, each output distribution does not exceed 400M or 680M DCLK, and supports QHD resolution 100Hz or 4K 60Hz.

[0010] Preferably, the protocol conversion module includes a DP-to-HDMI conversion chip for converting DisplayPort signals into HDMI signals.

[0011] Preferably, the multi-stream transmission distribution module includes an MST chip for realizing multi-screen signal distribution and daisy chain transmission.

[0012] Preferably, the system further includes a power management module for supplying power to the host through the Type-C Power Delivery protocol.

[0013] Preferably, the output module includes a plurality of HDMI interface control units for driving a plurality of HDMI output interfaces, respectively.

[0014] Preferably, the HDMI output interface adapted by the system is compatible with the HDMI 2.0 standard.

[0015] The Type-C-to-four-HDMI video docking station device includes a housing for accommodating the input module, the multi-stream transmission distribution module, the protocol conversion module, and the output module. An input interface and a plurality of HDMI output interfaces are provided on the housing for connection with the host and external displays. The device is used to receive the video signal of the host and output to at most four independent HDMI displays.

[0016] The application provides a Type-C to four-way HDMI video expansion dock system and device. The following beneficial effects are achieved: 1. The application realizes the physical link of single input to four-way HDMI output in a single expansion dock through four-level cascaded chip sets, and each level synchronously completes signal splitting and protocol conversion, so that the ordinary HDMI display is directly connected to the system, the four-screen independent display function is realized through pure hardware, and the compatibility and expansion capability of ordinary display equipment are improved.

[0017] 2. The application automatically implements hardware-level bandwidth allocation through four-level chip cascading, and when four displays are connected, each output is strictly limited within 400M or 680MDCLK, ensuring that a single channel meets the stable transmission requirements, so that four non-professional displays are synchronously output, and the stability of expansion is ensured.

[0018] 3. The application realizes multi-stream signal splitting and daisy chain cascading through RTD2720QT or RTD2735TD, and PS176 synchronously completes DP-HDMI protocol conversion, which directly forms a four-level processing link and solidifies the multi-screen expansion function at the silicon chip level, avoiding software protocol adaptation risks and performance fluctuations. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 The figure is a schematic diagram of the Type-C to four-way HDMI video expansion dock system of the application. Figure 2 The figure is a circuit diagram of the Type-C to four-way HDMI video expansion dock system of the application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The technical solutions of the application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative labor are within the scope of protection of the application.

[0021] Please refer to the accompanying drawings of the application Figure 1 and the accompanying drawings of the application Figure 2 The embodiment of the application provides a Type-C to four-way HDMI video expansion dock system, which comprises: An input module is configured to receive Type-C or DisplayPort video signals from a host; A multi-stream transmission distribution module is configured to distribute the input video signals into multiple channels, one of which is output to a protocol conversion module, and the other is output to a next-level multi-stream transmission distribution module as a daisy chain; The protocol conversion module is configured to convert the DisplayPort signal output by the multi-stream transmission distribution module into an HDMI signal. The output module is connected to the protocol conversion module and configured to output the HDMI signal to an external display. The multi-stream transmission distribution module and the protocol conversion module are sequentially cascaded and support a maximum of four HDMI video outputs.

[0022] Specifically, the input module is configured to receive a Type-C or DisplayPort video signal from a host and input the signal into the multi-stream transmission distribution module. The multi-stream transmission distribution module performs multi-path distribution on the input video signal, one path of which is transmitted to the protocol conversion module for DisplayPort-to-HDMI protocol conversion, and the other path is output as a daisy chain signal to the next multi-stream transmission distribution module to realize step-by-step expansion. The DisplayPort signals distributed by the multi-stream transmission distribution module are converted into HDMI signals by the protocol conversion modules, and then output to multiple external HDMI displays by the output module. Through the above cascaded structure, a maximum of four HDMI video signals can be independently output with only a single Type-C or DisplayPort interface, thereby realizing multi-screen expansion display without a high-cost display supporting MST, and having the advantages of strong compatibility, low implementation cost, and wide application scenarios.

[0023] The input module receives a video signal output by a host through a Type-C DisplayPort Alt mode.

[0024] Specifically, the Type-C interface circuit in conformity with the DisplayPort Alt mode is implemented. When the host outputs a video signal through the Type-C interface, the input module recognizes and establishes a link connection in the DP Alt mode, introduces the DisplayPort video signal into the system, and provides original video data for the subsequent multi-stream transmission distribution module, thereby realizing standardized DisplayPort video signal access on a host with only a single Type-C interface and improving the universality and ease of use of the system.

[0025] The multi-stream transmission distribution module is configured to support a maximum of 1600M or 2720M DCLK input.

[0026] Specifically, the multi-stream transmission distribution module directly receives a 1600M or 2720MDCLK input clock through an RTD2720QT or RTD2735TD chipset, splits the input video stream into a main output signal and a cascaded output signal based on an MST daisy chain protocol, outputs the main signal to the current protocol conversion module, and transmits the cascaded signal to the next RTD2720QT or RTD2735TD chip. The synchronous distribution of four video signals is realized through a four-level chip cascading architecture, the single high-bandwidth input is dynamically decomposed into multiple independent outputs, and balanced bandwidth is ensured for each signal, so that four-screen high-definition extended display is realized on an ordinary HDMI display.

[0027] When a four-way HDMI display is connected, each output is distributed with a DCLK of no more than 400M or 680M, which supports a QHD resolution of 100Hz or a 4K 60Hz.

[0028] Specifically, the multi-stream transmission distribution module dynamically divides the total bandwidth according to the number of display channels through a four-level RTD2720QT or RTD2735TD chip cascading architecture. When a four-way HDMI display is connected, the output end of each chip automatically limits the distribution of a DCLK clock frequency of no more than 400M or 680M, thereby ensuring that the quality of the four-way signal output is not attenuated through a hardware-level bandwidth constraint mechanism, and further realizing stable output of high-definition multi-screen heterogeneous display on four ordinary HDMI displays.

[0029] The protocol conversion module includes a DP-to-HDMI conversion chip for converting a DisplayPort signal into an HDMI signal.

[0030] Specifically, the protocol conversion module directly connects the output end of the multi-stream transmission distribution module through four independent DP-to-HDMI conversion chips, such as PS176. The chip converts the input DisplayPort data stream into a TMDS differential signal conforming to the HDMI standard in real time, reconstructs the clock, data packet, and control timing, and is compatible with the HDMI electrical characteristics and color space protocol, thereby realizing seamless conversion of the DisplayPort to HDMI protocol layer and ensuring synchronous output of the four-way signal.

[0031] The multi-stream transmission distribution module includes an MST chip for realizing multi-screen signal distribution and daisy chain transmission.

[0032] Specifically, the multi-stream transmission distribution module realizes signal distribution and daisy chain transmission through four cascaded MST chips (such as RTD2720QT or RTD2735TD), each chip splits the input video stream into two independent signals, the main road output to the DP-to-HDMI conversion chip of the current level to generate HDMI video, and the cascade road output to the next MST chip for redistribution, forming a one-way transmission link through four levels of hard link to realize multi-stream splitting and cascaded relay of the DisplayPort MST protocol in pure hardware.

[0033] The system further comprises a power management module for powering the host through the Type-C Power Delivery protocol.

[0034] Specifically, the power management module performs Power Delivery protocol handshake negotiation with the host through the configuration channel pin of the Type-C interface, activates the PD power receiving end chip control Buck step-down circuit after confirming the power receiving capacity of the host, converts the input voltage into adjustable DC output, and simultaneously sends it to the host power port through the VBUS pin in reverse, realizing synchronous video transmission and power delivery, so that the docking station can output four-way HDMI video signals while continuously supplying power.

[0035] The output module includes a plurality of HDMI interface control units for driving a plurality of HDMI output interfaces respectively; the HDMI output interfaces adapted by the system are compatible with the HDMI2.0 standard.

[0036] Specifically, the output module independently drives each HDMI output interface through a plurality of HDMI interface control units, provides a dedicated transmission channel and level drive for each converted HDMI signal, eliminates interference between multiple signals, ensures that four displays output high-definition images synchronously without crosstalk, and ensures the high-quality output capability of the multi-screen expansion system through the HDMI2.0 standard protocol.

[0037] The Type-C-to-four-way HDMI video docking station device comprises a housing for accommodating an input module, a multi-stream transmission distribution module, a protocol conversion module, and an output module; The housing is provided with an input interface and a plurality of HDMI output interfaces for connecting with the host and external displays; The device is used for receiving video signals of the host and outputting to at most four independent HDMI displays.

[0038] Specifically, the casing integrates four cascaded RTD2720QT or RTD2735TD chipsets with the PS176 chipset. The casing features a single Type-C input port and four HDMI 2.0 output ports. The internal hardware is directly connected to form a unidirectional daisy-chain architecture, enabling synchronous distribution and protocol conversion of the host's video signal to four independent HDMI displays. At the same time, the PD protocol reverse power supply module reuses the Type-C interface to charge the host, achieving a single-wire connection to drive four-screen displays and power supply to the devices, thus reducing usage costs.

[0039] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system, characterized in that, include: Input module for receiving Type-C or DisplayPort video signals from the host; The multi-stream transmission distribution module is used to distribute the input video signal into multiple streams, one of which is output to the protocol conversion module, and the other is output as a daisy chain to the next level multi-stream transmission distribution module. The protocol conversion module is used to convert the DisplayPort signal output by the multi-stream transmission allocation module into an HDMI signal; The output module, connected to the protocol conversion module, is used to output HDMI signals to an external display. The multi-stream transmission allocation module and the protocol conversion module are cascaded in sequence, supporting up to four HDMI video outputs.

2. The Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The input module receives the video signal output by the host via Type-C DisplayPort Alt mode.

3. The Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-stream transmission allocation module is used to support DCLK inputs of up to 1600M or 2720M.

4. The Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system according to claim 1, characterized in that, When connecting four external HDMI displays, each output is allocated no more than 400M or 680M DCLK, corresponding to support QHD resolution 100Hz or 4K 60Hz.

5. The Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protocol conversion module includes a DP to HDMI converter chip for converting DisplayPort signals to HDMI signals.

6. The Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-stream transmission distribution module includes an MST chip for implementing multi-screen signal distribution and daisy-chain transmission.

7. The Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The system further includes a power management module for supplying power to the host via the Type-C Power Delivery protocol.

8. The Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The output module includes multiple HDMI interface control units, which are used to drive multiple HDMI output interfaces respectively.

9. The Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The system's HDMI output interface is compatible with the HDMI 2.0 standard.

10. A Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion docking station, characterized in that, The device is used in the Type-C to four-channel HDMI video expansion dock system according to any one of claims 1-9, the device comprising a housing for accommodating the input module, the multi-stream transmission distribution module, the protocol conversion module and the output module; The housing is equipped with an input interface and multiple HDMI output interfaces for connecting to the host and external displays. The device is used to receive video signals from the host and output them to up to four independent HDMI displays.

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