Conference machine, conference machine control method, and office device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of display. Disclosed are a conference machine, a conference machine control method, and an office device. The operating mode of a conference machine can be increased so as to expand the application scenario of the conference machine. The conference machine comprises: a display; a display driving board; a system board provided with an output signal external port; a first multi-path signal selection board provided with an input signal external port, the first multi-path signal selection board being electrically connected to the system board and an input end of the display driving board separately; and a second multi-path signal selection board electrically connected to the system board, the display, and an output end of the display driving board separately.

Description

Conference machines, conference machine control methods and office equipment Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application disclosure claims priority to Chinese patent applications No. 202410557831.2 and 202420974045.8, filed on May 7, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a conference machine, and more particularly to a conference machine, a conference machine control method, and an office device. Background Technology

[0003] Currently, conference machines can process and communicate audio and video to enable information exchange during meetings. They are widely used in offices and meeting settings, and are also suitable for communication and presentation needs in casual discussion areas. However, existing conference machines have relatively limited functionality, primarily offering a meeting mode, which is difficult to adapt to office-related operating modes. Therefore, the application scenarios for conference machines are greatly limited. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A first aspect of this application provides a conference machine, comprising: a display; a display driver board; a system board having an external output signal port; a first multiplexer board having an external input signal port, the first multiplexer board being electrically connected to the input terminals of the system board and the display driver board respectively; and a second multiplexer board being electrically connected to the output terminals of the system board, the display, and the display driver board respectively.

[0005] A second aspect of this application provides a conference machine control method applied to the conference machine as described in the first aspect. The control method includes: controlling the multimedia signal transmission states between the system board and the first and second multiplexer boards respectively, and controlling the multimedia signal transmission states between the display driver board and the first and second multiplexer boards respectively, to control the conference machine to switch between different working modes. The multimedia signal transmission states include a multimedia signal transmission on state and a multimedia signal transmission off state.

[0006] A third aspect of this application provides an office device, including: a conference machine as described in the first aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The above and various other advantages and benefits of the present invention will become clear to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments.

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic structural block diagram of a conference machine provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0009] Figure 2 is a schematic structural block diagram of another conference machine provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0010] Figure 3 is a schematic structural block diagram of another conference machine provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0011] Figure 4 is a schematic structural block diagram of a system board provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0012] Figure 5 is a schematic structural block diagram of another system board provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0013] Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of a system board provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0014] Figure 7 is a schematic structural block diagram of another system board provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0015] Figure 8 is a schematic structural block diagram of an office equipment provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The present invention will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. This description is merely illustrative of the basic principles of the invention and is not intended to limit it.

[0017] In this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, without necessarily requiring or implying any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element. The term "two or more" includes two or more cases.

[0018] Currently, conference machines can process and communicate audio and video to enable information exchange during meetings. They are widely used in offices and meeting settings, and are also suitable for communication and presentation needs in casual discussion areas. However, existing conference machines have relatively limited functionality, primarily offering a meeting mode, which is difficult to adapt to office-related operating modes. Therefore, the application scenarios for conference machines are greatly limited.

[0019] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a conference machine, a conference machine control method, and office equipment, which can increase the operating modes of the conference machine to expand its application scenarios.

[0020] A first aspect of this application provides a conference machine, and FIG1 is a schematic structural block diagram of a conference machine provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in FIG1, the conference machine includes a display 100, a display driver board 200, a system board 300, a first multiplexer board 400, and a second multiplexer board 500. The system board 300 is provided with an output signal external port 310, and the first multiplexer board 400 is provided with an input signal external port 410. The first multiplexer board 400 is electrically connected to the input terminals of the system board 300 and the display driver board 200, respectively; the second multiplexer board 500 is electrically connected to the output terminals of the system board 300, the display 100, and the display driver board 200, respectively.

[0021] For example, the input signal external port 410 can be used to access an external signal source, such as a computer host, laptop, tablet computer, and smartphone, etc., and this application embodiment does not specifically limit it. The external signal source accessed by the input signal external port 410 can be used to provide display data to display the image on the display 100. The display data provided by the external signal source can be used for the office mode requirements of the conference machine, and the conference machine can serve as the display screen or extended display sub-screen of the external signal source.

[0022] For example, the output signal external port 310 can be used to connect to other displays, computers, and smartphones, etc. The data output from the output signal external port 310 can be used to display images on other displays, etc., and other displays can serve as extended display sub-screens for the conference machine.

[0023] For example, the display driver board 200 can convert and process the multimedia signal provided by the first multiplexer board 400. The multimedia signal provided by the first multiplexer board 400 to the display driver board 200 comes from the multimedia signal received by the input signal external port 410.

[0024] It should be noted that multimedia signals can include audio data signals and video data signals.

[0025] For example, the system board 300 can be used as the central control board of the conference machine. The system board 300 can provide the audio and video data acquired by the camera built into the conference machine to the display to realize the conference mode of the conference machine.

[0026] It should be noted that the number of output signal external ports 310 shown in Figure 1 is two, and the number of input signal external ports 410 is two. Figure 1 is only schematic and is not intended to limit the specific scope of this application.

[0027] It should be noted that the conference machine provided in this application embodiment includes a first multi-signal selection board 400 and a second multi-signal selection board 500. Depending on the application scenario of the conference machine, the conference machine may also include more multi-signal selection boards. The more multi-signal selection boards there are, the more working modes the conference machine has. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the number of multi-signal selection boards in the conference machine.

[0028] In some examples, the multimedia signal transmission status between the system board 300 and the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500, respectively, and the multimedia signal transmission status between the display driver board 200 and the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500, respectively, are controlled to switch the conference machine to different working modes. The multimedia signal transmission status includes multimedia signal transmission on and multimedia signal transmission off.

[0029] In some examples, the conference machine can operate in conference mode even when the multimedia signal transmission between the system board 300 and the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 is both on, and the multimedia signal transmission between the display driver board 200 and both the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 is disconnected. In conference mode, the system board 300 can transmit multimedia signals to external devices through its output signal external port 310, receive multimedia signals from external signal sources through the input signal external port 420 of the first multiplexer board 400, and transmit multimedia signals to the display 100 through the second multiplexer board 500. The multimedia signals transmitted by the system board 300 to the display 100 through the second multiplexer board 500 can be external signal sources received through the input signal external port 410, or multimedia signals acquired by the conference machine's built-in camera. In conference mode, the display driver board 200 is not connected to the multimedia signal transmission path.

[0030] In some examples, when the multimedia signal transmission between the system board 300 and both the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 is disconnected, and the multimedia signal transmission between the display driver board 200 and both the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 is connected, the conference machine can operate in office mode. In office mode, the first multiplexer board 400 transmits the multimedia signal from the external signal source received through the input signal external port 410 to the display driver board 200. The display driver board 200 converts and processes the received multimedia signal before transmitting it to the second multiplexer board 500. The second multiplexer board 500 then transmits the multimedia signal to the display 100 for displaying and amplifying the audio and video signals provided by the external signal source on the display 100.

[0031] It should be noted that when the conference machine is operating in both office and meeting modes, all signal connections between the system board 300 and the first and second multiplexer boards 400, excluding multimedia signals, remain open. These other signals may include interactive command signals. In office mode, although the multimedia signal transmission between the system board 300 and the first and second multiplexer boards 400 and 500 is disconnected, command signal interaction between the system board 300 and the first and second multiplexer boards 400 and 500 can still occur normally. The continuity of multimedia signal transmission between the system board 300 and the first and second multiplexer boards 400 and 500 does not affect the continuity of other signal transmissions; the multimedia signal transmission on the system board 300 is independent of the transmission of other signals.

[0032] For example, Figure 2 is a schematic structural block diagram of another conference machine provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, the conference machine typically includes a display screen, a T-con board, and a system board. The system board is equipped with an HDMI IN external port and an HDMI OUT external port. The HDMI IN external port is used to connect to an external signal source, and the HDMI OUT external port is used to transmit signals to external devices. HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) is a fully digital video and audio transmission interface that can transmit uncompressed audio and video signals. The system board and the T-con board transmit audio and video signals through an eDP (Embedded DisplayPort, an internal digital interface based on the DisplayPort architecture and protocol) interface. The T-con board is used to control the timing signals of the display screen. The conference machine's signal transmission channels have only one HDMI input and two HDMI outputs, namely one HDMI IN external port and two HDMI OUT external ports. Conference conferencing machines only support a meeting mode and can only be used in meeting scenarios. They typically have a built-in camera and process the input signal in camera mode, supporting only fixed parameter inputs. Unlike office monitors, they cannot support multiple video source formats. Furthermore, as desktop conferencing machines, to achieve compatibility with both office and meeting scenarios, a separate office monitor needs to be connected, increasing desktop space and budget. The limited application of conferencing machines that only support a meeting mode reduces their frequency of use and necessity.

[0033] The conference machine provided in this application embodiment, through the configuration of a first multi-channel signal selection board 400, a second multi-channel signal selection board 500, and a display driver board 200, can achieve switchable working modes by switching the signal transmission states of the first multi-channel signal selection board 400 and the second multi-channel signal selection board 500, as well as the signal transmission state of the display driver board 200. By adding the configuration of the first multi-channel signal selection board 400, the second multi-channel signal selection board 500, and the display driver board 200, the number of multimedia signal transmission channels can be increased. Based on different combinations of disconnection and connection of multimedia signal transmission channels, different working modes corresponding to the conference machine can be obtained, thereby increasing the number of working modes of the conference machine. This makes the conference machine not limited to a meeting mode, but also compatible with an office mode. This allows the application scenarios of the conference machine to be compatible with multiple working modes such as meetings and offices, avoiding the increased cost and space occupation of office equipment in existing conference machines to accommodate office use.

[0034] In some embodiments, the system board 300 includes a mode switching module; the mode switching module is used to control the switching of the conference machine's operating modes, including a first operating mode and a second operating mode. When the conference machine is in the first operating mode, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the display driver board 200 is disconnected, while the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the system board 300 is connected. The multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the display driver board 200 is disconnected, while the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the system board 300 is connected. In the first operating mode, multimedia signals from external signal sources can be transmitted to the system board 300 through the first multiplexer board 400. The system board 300 converts and processes the received multimedia signals before transmitting them to the second multiplexer board 500. The second multiplexer board 500 converts and processes the received multimedia signals before transmitting them to the display 100. The signal from the conference machine's built-in camera, acquired by the system board 300, can also be transmitted to the display 100 via the second multiplexer board 500. The conference machine's first operating mode can be used as the conference mode application scenario. The display driver board 200 can be used to process data signals from external signal sources used in office scenarios to meet office needs. In the first operating mode, the display driver board 200 is disconnected from the multimedia transmission channel, that is, the multimedia signal transmission channel of the office mode is disconnected.

[0035] In some implementations, when the conference machine is in the second operating mode, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the display driver board 200 is connected, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the system board 300 is disconnected, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the display driver board 200 is connected, and the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the system board 300 is disconnected. In the second operating mode, multimedia signals from external signal sources can be transmitted to the display driver board 200 through the first multiplexer board 400. The display driver board 200 converts and processes the received multimedia signals before transmitting them to the second multiplexer board 500. The second multiplexer board 500 processes the received multimedia signals and sends them to the display 100. The multimedia signal transmission channels of system board 300, first multi-channel signal selection board 400, and second multi-channel signal selection board 500 are all disconnected. This can isolate the multimedia signal transmission of the conference machine's built-in camera, as well as the channel for transmitting multimedia signals to external devices. This can meet the requirements of office mode scenarios, namely, disabling the camera function and the function of transmitting data to external devices in office mode, thus ensuring the confidentiality and security of data during office work.

[0036] For example, the mode switching module can be a pulse trigger, which can be a pulse trigger in the form of a button structure, or a pulse trigger in the form of an electronically controlled switch circuit. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the structure and type of the mode switching module. The pulse trigger can generate different pulse signals corresponding to different triggering forms, such as low-level pulse signals and high-level pulse signals, etc., and different pulse signals can be set according to the mode type of the mode switching mode. The electronically controlled switch circuit can be controlled by touch signals, or by remote control switches, etc., and this application embodiment does not specifically limit it.

[0037] For example, the mode switching module may include a first state and a second state. For instance, in a button-structured mode switching module, the pressed state corresponds to the first state, and the released state corresponds to the second state. The first state may be triggered by a low-level pulse, and the second state may be triggered by a high-level pulse. When the mode switching module is switched to the first state, the system board 300 can send a first control signal to the first multiplexer board 400 and a second control signal to the second multiplexer board 500. The first control signal is used to disconnect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the display driver board 200, and to connect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the system board 300. The second control signal is used to disconnect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the display driver board 200, and to connect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the system board 300. The first state of the mode switching module may correspond to the first working mode of the conference machine.

[0038] For example, when the mode switching module is switched to the second state, the system board 300 can send a third control signal to the first multiplexer board 400 and a fourth control signal to the second multiplexer board 500. The third control signal is used to disconnect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the system board 300, and to connect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the display driver board 200. The fourth control signal is used to disconnect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the system board 300, and to connect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the display driver board 200. The second state of the mode switching module can correspond to the second working mode of the conference machine.

[0039] For example, regardless of whether it is the first working mode or the second working mode, the transmission channels of the control signals between the system board 300 and the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 are both connected.

[0040] For example, the opening and closing of a multimedia signal transmission channel can be achieved by switching a circuit on and off, which may include transistors or other forms of switching devices.

[0041] It should be noted that the system board 300 can also be equipped with a control module for signal interaction, used to enable command interaction between the conference machine and the user in conference mode, such as touch signal interaction, button signal interaction, mouse control signal interaction, and signal interaction between external devices and the conference machine. The first multi-channel signal selection board 400 can be equipped with a human-machine interaction signal transmission module to enable signal interaction between external devices and the conference machine.

[0042] In some implementations, the input signal external port 410 may include an HDMI input port and a DP (DisplayPort) input port. The output signal external port 310 may include an HDMI output port and a DP output port.

[0043] For example, Figure 3 is a schematic structural block diagram of another conference machine provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 3, the conference machine may further include: a timing control board 600, which is connected between the second multiplexer board 500 and the display 100; the input signal external ports include an HDMI output port HDMI OUT and a mode switching module 320. The first multiplexer board 400 includes an HDMI input port HDMI IN and a DP input port DP IN.

[0044] Referring to Figure 3, the system board 300 transmits multimedia signals to the first multiplexer board 400 via the first HDMI interface (HDMI IN 1) and the first DP interface (DP IN 1). The first multiplexer board 400 transmits multimedia signals to the display driver board 200 via the second HDMI interface (HDMI IN 2) and the second DP interface (DP IN 2). The system board 300 transmits multimedia signals to the second multiplexer board 500 via the first eDP interface (eDP1), the display driver board 200 transmits multimedia signals to the second multiplexer board 500 via the second eDP interface (eDP2), and the second multiplexer board 500 transmits multimedia signals to the timing control board 600 via an eDP interface. The system board 300 sends control signals to the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 through separate channels.

[0045] It should be noted that the arrow directions in the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of this application are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to limit the specific implementation of the embodiments of this application.

[0046] It should be noted that conference machines typically only have one mode, namely conference mode, which supports one HDMI input and two HDMI outputs. However, due to the processing method of existing system control chips, the input signal is processed according to the camera mode, which can only support fixed parameter input and cannot support multiple video source formats like office monitors.

[0047] The conference machine provided in this application embodiment adds a DP input port (DP IN), enabling it to match more video source devices, i.e., it can be compatible with more external signal sources. Two new multi-channel signal selection boards are added: the first multi-channel signal selection board 400 can select the output path for input HDMI and DP signals, and the second multi-channel signal selection board 500 can select the input path for eDP signals. A new display driver board 200 is added, which can be used for display signal conversion and processing in office mode. A new mode switching module is added, which can be used to switch the conference machine between conference mode and office mode. There is only one HDMI IN and one DP IN port for connecting external signal sources, eliminating the need for users to plug and unplug cables when switching working modes, thus improving user convenience.

[0048] In some implementations, the conference unit also includes an HDMI signal conversion module, which converts the signal received from the HDMI input port into a MIPI (Mobile Industry Processor Interface) signal.

[0049] In some implementations, the conference unit also includes a DP signal conversion module, which converts the signal received at the DP input port into a MIPI signal.

[0050] For example, both the system board 300 and the display driver board 200 may include an HDMI signal conversion module and a DP signal conversion module.

[0051] For example, Figure 4 is a schematic structural block diagram of a system board provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 4, the conference machine supports two camera inputs and one HDMI signal input. The two camera inputs correspond to Camera0 and Camera1, respectively, and correspond to two MIPI signal paths, namely MIPI(CSI0) and MIPI(CSI1). The system board may include a control circuit 330. For example, the control circuit 330 may include a System Controller (SOC). For example, the SOC may be a QCS8250 chip. Since the SOC does not support input of display signals, but only supports video signal acquisition from the camera, the video signal is converted into a video signal that the SOC can decode through the built-in ISP (Image Signal Processor). Therefore, the conference machine is designed with a signal conversion circuit, namely HDMI to MIPI (CSI). CSI is short for Channel State Information. HDMI to MIPI (CSI) can convert HDMI signals into MIPI signals (CSI mode), simulating a camera, and obtaining two MIPI paths, namely MIPI (CSI2) and MIPI (CSI3), which can be recognized and decoded by the SOC's built-in ISP module to realize the recognition of the input video signal.

[0052] For example, since a single MIPI interface can only support up to 4K@30fps video capture, a single interface cannot meet the display requirements of 4K@60Hz. Current conference machines use 4K@60Hz displays, which require two MIPI channels. In this case, one HDMI channel is equivalent to two cameras, requiring two ISP channels. However, the current SOC can only support two ISPs for decoding and video processing simultaneously, causing a conflict between HDMI input and camera use. They are not compatible with each other, meaning that the HDMI input channel and the camera input channel cannot be used simultaneously.

[0053] For example, Figure 5 is a schematic structural block diagram of another system board provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 5, the conference machine provided in this embodiment, when adding DP signal input, adds a DP to MIPI circuit, a second signal switching module DATA Switch3, an HDMI to MIPI (CSI) signal conversion module, and a DP to MIPI (CSI) signal conversion module, corresponding to two MIPI paths, MIPI 0 / 1 and MIPI 2 / 3. The control circuit 330 adds a state judgment mechanism, which, through the second signal switching module DATA Switch3, increases the camera priority and disconnects the video input path when starting the conference mode; and increases the video input path priority and disconnects the camera input channel when in office mode. The switching between office mode and conference mode can be determined by external buttons and software running status.

[0054] For example, a camera input channel can be a data channel consisting of the camera and the corresponding data processing and transmission circuits and devices. A multimedia signal transmission channel is also an overall pathway that includes ports, lines, circuits, and devices.

[0055] It should be noted that the HDMI and DP signals shown in Figure 5 come from the first multiplexer board 400.

[0056] For example, the second signal switching module DATA Switch3 is used to disconnect the camera input channel in the second working mode, that is, to disconnect MIPI (CSI0) and MIPI (CSI1); the second signal switching module DATA Switch3 is used to turn on the camera input channel in the first working mode, that is, to turn on MIPI (CSI0) and MIPI (CSI1).

[0057] For example, the camera input channels include multiple channels. The second signal switching module DATA Switch3 is used in the first operating mode to disconnect one or more camera input channels based on a second input selection command, and establish one or more multimedia signal transmission channels between the system board and the first multi-channel signal selection board. The multimedia signal transmission channels may include video input paths. For example, in the first operating mode, the control circuit 330 can send a second input selection command to the second signal switching module DATA Switch3. The second signal switching module DATA Switch3 controls one of MIPI (CSI0) and MIPI (CSI1) to be disconnected and the other to be turned on according to the second input selection command, and controls MIPI (CSI2) and MIPI (CSI3) corresponding to MIPI 0 / 1 and MIPI 2 / 3 to be turned on respectively.

[0058] For example, the second input selection instruction can be a selection instruction issued by the user, or it can be a different input mode corresponding to the working mode of the conference machine. This application embodiment does not make specific limitations.

[0059] For example, the SOC determines whether it is in meeting mode or office mode. In meeting mode, it turns on the camera path and turns off the video input path. MIPI (CSI0) and MIPI (CSI1) correspond to the camera path, and MIPI (CSI2) and MIPI (CSI3) correspond to the video input path. In this mode, HDMI or DP signals are not processed by the conference machine. In office mode, it turns on the video input path and turns off the camera. All attempts to turn on the camera are unresponsive, and the display shows "Currently in office mode, camera disabled," reminding the user.

[0060] For scenarios requiring video input display in conference mode, the user can choose to turn off one camera, thereby freeing up a MIPI channel to achieve video input up to 4K@30Hz. In this case, the SOC selects the input channel based on the output paths of the HDMI to MIPI and DP to MIPI chips and displays it on the screen as a supplement to the conference.

[0061] For example, the default video input is HDMI signal input. If the HDMI input port receives a hot-plug insertion signal, the HDMI input channel remains unchanged, and the SOC judges the input signal and receives it. If the DP input port receives a hot-plug insertion signal, the system switches to the DP input channel, and the SOC judges the input signal and receives it. If both ports have signals connected, a prompt message for selecting HDMI and DP input signals appears on the display screen, allowing the user to select the input source and generate a first input selection command. The second signal switching module can switch the signal transmission between the HDMI and DP input channels based on the first input selection command.

[0062] The second signal switching module, DATA Switch3, can be used for channel selection control of HDMI and DP signal inputs, as well as for selection control of multimedia signal transmission channels and camera paths.

[0063] In some embodiments, the conference machine also includes a first signal switching module, which may be located in at least one of the system board 300, the first multiplexer board 400, and the display driver board 200.

[0064] For example, the first signal switching module is disposed on the display driver board 200. This module is used to switch the signal transmission between the HDMI input channel and the DP input channel based on a first input selection command when both the HDMI input port and the DP input port are connected to an external signal source. The first input selection command is a selection command made by the user based on signal input selection prompt information.

[0065] For example, the system board control logic adds a working mode switching control judgment. Mode switching is controlled by external button signals. Since the button signal is triggered by a low-level pulse, it will not remain in a low-level state indefinitely. The switching logic adopts a sequential rotation method. The default is conference mode. Pressing an odd number enters office mode. In office mode, the system board shuts down the video processing unit and does not support HDMI OUT function. Pressing an even number enters conference mode. In conference mode, the system board processes video signals and supports HDMI OUT function. Different display paths are selected according to different modes.

[0066] For example, the system board controls the two signal selection boards to select the path according to the current mode. When entering the conference mode, the input signals of the first multi-channel signal selection board 400 are all switched to the input port of the system board, and the channel of the second multi-channel signal selection board 500 is switched to the eDP output interface of the system board. When entering the office mode, the input signals of the first multi-channel signal selection board 400 are all switched to the input port of the display driver board, and the channel of the second multi-channel signal selection board 500 is switched to the eDP output interface of the display driver board.

[0067] The conferencing machine provided in this application expands the conferencing machine's operating modes and solves the display specification limitations caused by the parsing of input video formats based on camera mode. In office mode, it can support more display specifications, facilitating access to different signal sources for office work. For example, display specifications may include parameters such as resolution and refresh rate. All display input ports in conferencing mode are retained, and the DP IN port is expanded to ensure that video source switching and sharing of external video source information are still supported in conferencing mode.

[0068] In some embodiments, the system board 300 includes a charging cable interface, a control circuit, a first data switching module, a second data switching module, and a charging switching module. The charging cable interface is used to transmit current and digital electrical signals. The charging cable interface is electrically connected to the charging switching module, the control circuit, the first data switching module, and the second data switching module, respectively. The output signal external port is electrically connected to the first data switching module and the second data switching module, respectively. The charging cable interface includes a first communication protocol detection pin, a second communication protocol detection pin, and a first insertion / removal detection pin. The charging switching module is electrically connected to the first communication protocol detection pin, the second communication protocol detection pin, the first insertion / removal detection pin, and the control circuit, respectively. The control circuit is used to send a mode switching signal to the charging switching module. The mode switching signal includes a normal mode signal and a common mode signal. The mode switching signal is generated based on a charging mode switching command, which may correspond to the button state of the charging mode switching module. The charging switching module outputs a first detection signal under the control of the normal mode signal. When an external device is connected to the charging cable interface, the reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface is activated under the control of the first detection signal. Under the control of the common mode signal, the charging switching module outputs a second detection signal. When an external device is connected to the output signal external port, the transmission channel of the output signal external port is normally activated under the control of the second detection signal. When receiving the normal mode signal, the charging switching module is in normal charging mode. In normal charging mode, when an external device is connected to the charging cable interface, the reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface is activated. The reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface includes the connected charging cable interface, the first data switching module, and the power management module. When receiving the common mode signal, the charging switching module is in common charging mode. In common charging mode, when an external device is connected to the output signal external port, the transmission channel of the output signal external port is normally activated. The transmission channel of the output signal external port includes the connected output signal external port, the second data switching module, and the control circuit.

[0069] It should be noted that the external device connected to the charging port can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, smartwatch, etc., and this application embodiment does not make specific limitations.

[0070] For example, in normal mode, the reverse charging priority of the charging cable interface takes precedence over the conduction of the multimedia signal transmission channel of the output signal port. In shared mode, the reverse charging channel and the multimedia signal transmission channel can be activated simultaneously, and the activation status of the multimedia signal transmission channel is not affected by the connection of an external device to the charging cable interface.

[0071] For example, Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of a system board provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 6, the system board 300 includes a control circuit 330, a power management module 340, a first HDMI output port HDMI OUT1, a second HDMI output port HDMI OUT2, a charging cable interface, an expansion / adapter board MST HUB, a first data switching module Data Switch1, a second data switching module Data Switch2, and a fast charging protocol module PD Controller. As shown in Figure 6, the charging cable interface can be a Type-C interface, and the power management module 340 can be a power management chip.

[0072] For example, as shown in Figure 6, Type-C Power represents the power signal, CC1 / CC2 represents the plug-in detection signal (CC1 and CC2 correspond to the correct and reverse plug-in signals, respectively), SBU1 and SBU2 represent the headphone signal, Type-C SS TX / RX1 and Type-C SS TX / RX2 represent the USB 3.1 data signal, USB DM / DP represents the USB 2.0 data signal, and Type-C DET represents the plug-in detection signal. The plug-in detection signals of CC1 / CC2 are provided to the power management module 340, and the plug-in detection signal of Type-C DET is provided to the first data switching module Data Switch1 and the second data switching module Data Switch2. HDMI DATA / CLK represents the data clock signal, DDC represents the digital signal, and HDP represents the hot-plug detection signal. DP out Data1 is the video signal data output by the first data switching module Data Switch1, and DP out Data2 is the video signal data output by the second data switching module Data Switch2. HDP (CC1) uses the CC1 channel to transmit the hot-plug detection signal. AUX CH represents the DDC channel.

[0073] For example, as shown in Figure 6, the first communication protocol detection pin can be used to transmit the CC1 signal, the second communication protocol detection pin can be used to transmit the CC2 signal, and the first insertion / removal detection pin can be used to transmit the Type-C DET signal. The HPD signal can be transmitted through the second insertion / removal detection signal.

[0074] The conference system supports two HDMI outputs, but these outputs share the Type-C data path. Although it doesn't occupy the USB signal path or the CC detection port, theoretically, USB 2.0 and HDMI OUT can be used simultaneously. However, in practice, inserting a Type-C cable automatically switches the mode (Type-C has higher priority than HDMI OUT), and the HDMI OUT output is cut off. If you want HDMI OUT output, you cannot connect the Type-C cable. This means that when multiple screens are displayed, you cannot charge external devices such as mobile phones simultaneously. For situations where there is no wireless charging or the wireless charging power is limited, and fast charging is desired, you have to find a separate charger. In practical applications, the conference system's multi-screen display design supports one HDMI IN input and two HDMI OUT outputs. The goal is to achieve two or three-screen linkage between a regular monitor or two other conference systems via the HDMI interface. During a meeting, one secondary screen displays PPT content, while another secondary screen records meeting content or sends text messages without affecting the current meeting. The need for HDMI OUT in these scenarios makes users tend not to constantly plug and unplug cables, which greatly limits the fast charging function of the conference system.

[0075] For example, referring to Figure 6, when no external device is detected connected to the Type-C port, the pin signal corresponding to Type-C DET is pulled high; when an external device is detected connected to the Type-C port, the pin signal corresponding to Type-C DET is pulled low. Therefore, inserting an external device cable will inevitably cause the signals of HDMI OUT1 and HDMI OUT2 to be cut off, switching to Type-C mode; not inserting an external device cable will switch to HDMI OUT mode. The two modes cannot coexist, that is, the signal channels corresponding to Type-C and HDMI OUT cannot be turned on at the same time. In this case, reverse charging of HDMI OUT and Type-C cannot be achieved simultaneously.

[0076] As shown in the figure, the switching of the signal channels corresponding to Type-C and HDMI OUT all rely on the same detection signal for judgment. The judgment logic is shown in Table 1. Table 1 is a signal correspondence table of the signal channel switching logic corresponding to Type-C and HDMI OUT.

[0077] Table 1

[0078] As shown in Figure 6, the fast charging protocol module PD Controller can be a fast charging protocol chip that relies on the external Type-C input status for judgment. When CC1 / CC2 is connected to the PD Controller's HDP (CC1), it cannot receive external status information and only obtains the HPD status of HDMI OUT. Simultaneously, a Type-C cable cannot be connected; otherwise, the channel switches to Type-C mode, and HDMI OUT will no longer be displayed. To solve this problem, it is necessary to distinguish between the Type-C DET and CC1 / CC2 status signals to disconnect the association between these states, thereby enabling simultaneous use of Type-C charging and HDMI OUT functions.

[0079] In some embodiments, Figure 7 is a schematic structural block diagram of another system board provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 7, in the conference machine provided in this embodiment, the power management module 340 is electrically connected to the first data switching module Data Switch1, and a fast charging protocol module PD Controller is connected between the first data switching module Data Switch1 and the second data switching module Data Switch2. The charging switching module includes an OR gate circuit, a controllable switch, a selection switch, and a transistor Q1. The output terminal of the first insertion / removal detection pin is electrically connected to the input terminal of the controllable switch, and the output terminal of the controllable switch is electrically connected to the first data switching module Data Switch1 and the second data switching module Data Switch2, respectively.

[0080] Referring to Figure 7, the first communication protocol detection pin and the second communication protocol detection pin are respectively connected to the input terminals of the OR gate circuit. A selection switch is connected between the output terminal of the OR gate circuit and the first data switching module. The input terminals of the OR gate circuit are connected to CC1 and CC2, meaning that CC1 and CC2 are connected in parallel with the OR gate circuit. The OR gate circuit is connected in series with the selection switch, and the common mode charging signal (CC2) output by the selection switch is transmitted to the power management module 340 through the first data switching module Data Switch1. Control circuit 330 sends mode switching signals to the controllable switch and the selector switch. The first electrode of transistor Q1 is connected to the output terminal of the controllable switch, the second electrode of transistor Q1 is grounded, and the third electrode of transistor Q1 is used to receive the mode switching signal. The normal mode signal is used to control the controllable switch to be on, the selector switch to be off, and transistor Q1 to be off. That is, when control circuit 330 sends a normal mode signal to the controllable switch and the selector switch, the controllable switch is on, the selector switch is off, and transistor Q1 is off. Then the controllable switch can output the first detection signal, and the output of the first detection signal is unaffected. The selector switch has no signal output. The first detection signal controls the switching between the DP out Data2 and Type-C signals of the first data switching module Data Switch1 and the second data switching module Data Switch2. This can realize the selection of the transmission channel of the input signal external port. That is, when no external device is connected to the Type-C port, and an external device is connected to HDMI OUT1 and HDMI OUT2, under the control of the first detection signal, HDMI OUT1 and HDMI OUT2 can switch between the two ports. When the signal transmission channel corresponding to OUT1 is turned on, the Type-C port is connected to an external device. Under the control of the first detection signal, regardless of whether HDMI OUT1 and HDMI OUT1 are connected to an external device, the mode will be switched to Type-C port on, and HDMI OUT1 and HDMI OUT1 will be turned off.

[0081] Referring to Figure 7, the common mode signal can be used to control the controllable switch to open, the selector switch to open, and the transistor Q1 to open. The detection signal output by the controllable switch is then pulled low by Q1 grounding. The selector switch can output a common mode charging (CC2) signal, i.e., the second detection signal. When an external device is connected to the Type-C port, the power management module 340 can output a reverse charging signal to reverse charge the external device. Furthermore, since the output signal potential of the controllable switch is pulled low, the conduction of the transmission channel of the output signal external port is unaffected regardless of whether the Type-C port is connected to an external device. When an external device is connected to the output signal external port, it can remain constantly on. That is, the first data switching module Data Switch1 can also force HDMI OUT to remain constantly active. The Type-C interface can then achieve reverse charging and partial data signal transmission. The detection signal output by the controllable switch no longer follows the Type-C DET change and becomes normally low. Regardless of whether a Type-C port is plugged in, it is in DP OUT mode (converted to HDMI OUT signal by the MST HUB).

[0082] It should be noted that the detection signal output by the controllable switch under the normal mode signal can be used as the first detection signal, and the signal output by the selector switch under the common mode signal can be used as the second detection signal.

[0083] It should be noted that CC1 and CC2 are connected in parallel into an OR gate circuit. Whether CC1 or CC2 detects a signal in the Type-C interface, i.e., whether the Type-C interface line is connected correctly or incorrectly, the signal output can be controlled by the selection switch circuit. Under the action of the common mode signal, the signal output by the selection switch is used by the power management module 340 to determine whether to open the reverse charging channel.

[0084] Additionally, the power management module 340 can determine whether to enable the reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface based on the signal from the selector switch output, the signal from the first communication protocol detection pin, and the signal from the second communication protocol detection pin. That is, in shared mode, if CC1 and CC2 detect an external device connected to the Type-C interface, the reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface can be enabled.

[0085] As shown in Figure 7, the button signal can come from the charging mode switching button on the system board, and the SPI signal represents the fast charging protocol signal. It should be noted that the button used for switching charging modes and the button used for switching the conference machine's working mode can be independently configured different buttons.

[0086] In normal mode, the controllable switch is on, the selector switch is off, and the transistor is off. The controllable switch outputs a first detection signal. When an external device is connected to the charging cable interface, the reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface is on. In shared mode, the controllable switch is off, the selector switch is on, and the transistor is on. The selector switch outputs a second detection signal. When an external device is connected to the output signal external port, the transmission channel of the output signal external port is always on.

[0087] The conference machine provided in this embodiment adds a mode switching signal to the system board 300 to control the status of the Type-C DET detection signal and the detection signals CC1 and CC2, ensuring that HDMI OUT is maintained normally when switched to shared mode, while Type-C reverse charging can also be performed. In HDMI OUT display mode, the HPD signal occupies the CC1 signal channel, and the charging status signal occupies the CC2 signal channel, so that the power management module 340 can judge and control the charging status.

[0088] In normal mode, the CC1 / 2 signals are not output, thus not affecting the signal state logic in the original design. When switching to shared mode, the CC signal is output, occupying the CC2 channel. Since an OR gate is used at the front end, as long as the Type-C is connected, regardless of its orientation, the power management module 340 will determine that the Type-C is connected, enabling reverse charging. Since CC1 and CC2 are primarily used to determine the Type-C orientation and thus the data transmission channel, orientation determination is not required for charging alone, which also conforms to the USB Type-C protocol.

[0089] For example, the charging mode switching is controlled by an external button signal. Since the button signal is triggered by a low-level pulse, it will not remain in a low-level state indefinitely. The switching logic adopts a sequential rotation method, with the default being the normal mode. Pressing an odd-numbered button enters the shared mode, and pressing an even-numbered button enters the normal mode. Different mode signal level states are output according to different modes.

[0090] The conference machine provided in this application embodiment, according to the charging mode switching signal, when switched to the normal mode, determines the Type-C insertion status based on the CC1 / CC2 status to confirm whether to enable the reverse charging function; when switched to the shared mode, determines whether the external HDMI device is inserted based on the HPD signal, and determines whether the Type-C is inserted based on the CC1 / 2 signal to confirm whether to enable the reverse charging function. Since this mode does not switch to the full-function Type-C mode, the judgment in this case is not considered.

[0091] The conference receiver provided in this application optimizes the Type-C cable insertion detection and CC1 / CC2 direction detection. While retaining the original detection functions, a shared mode detection function is added, enabling the identification and detection of reverse charging even when Type-C 3.1 data is used for extended display. The firmware of the power management module is optimized to add shared mode charging detection and judgment, recognizing the switch to shared mode and activating the reverse charging function even when the extended display is in use.

[0092] A second aspect of this application provides a conference machine control method, applied to the conference machine as described in the first aspect, the control method comprising:

[0093] By controlling the multimedia signal transmission status between the system board and the first and second multi-channel signal selection boards, and controlling the multimedia signal transmission status between the display driver board and the first and second multi-channel signal selection boards, the conference machine can be controlled to switch between different working modes. The multimedia signal transmission status includes a multimedia signal transmission on state and a multimedia signal transmission off state.

[0094] In some examples, the conference machine can operate in conference mode even when the multimedia signal transmission between the system board 300 and the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 is both on, and the multimedia signal transmission between the display driver board 200 and both the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 is disconnected. In conference mode, the system board 300 can transmit multimedia signals to external devices through its output signal external port 310, receive multimedia signals from external signal sources through the input signal external port 420 of the first multiplexer board 400, and transmit multimedia signals to the display 100 through the second multiplexer board 500. The multimedia signals transmitted by the system board 300 to the display 100 through the second multiplexer board 500 can be external signal sources received through the input signal external port 410, or multimedia signals acquired by the conference machine's built-in camera. In conference mode, the display driver board 200 is not connected to the multimedia signal transmission path.

[0095] In some examples, when the multimedia signal transmission between the system board 300 and both the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 is disconnected, and the multimedia signal transmission between the display driver board 200 and both the first multiplexer board 400 and the second multiplexer board 500 is connected, the conference machine can operate in office mode. In office mode, the first multiplexer board 400 transmits the multimedia signal from the external signal source received through the input signal external port 410 to the display driver board 200. The display driver board 200 converts and processes the received multimedia signal before transmitting it to the second multiplexer board 500. The second multiplexer board 500 then transmits the multimedia signal to the display 100 for displaying and amplifying the audio and video signals provided by the external signal source on the display 100.

[0096] The conference machine provided in this application embodiment, through the configuration of a first multi-channel signal selection board 400, a second multi-channel signal selection board 500, and a display driver board 200, can achieve switchable working modes by switching the signal transmission states of the first multi-channel signal selection board 400 and the second multi-channel signal selection board 500, as well as the signal transmission state of the display driver board 200. By adding the configuration of the first multi-channel signal selection board 400, the second multi-channel signal selection board 500, and the display driver board 200, the number of multimedia signal transmission channels can be increased. Based on different combinations of disconnection and connection of multimedia signal transmission channels, different working modes corresponding to the conference machine can be obtained, thereby increasing the number of working modes of the conference machine. This makes the conference machine not limited to a meeting mode, but also compatible with an office mode. This allows the application scenarios of the conference machine to be compatible with multiple working modes such as meetings and offices, avoiding the increased cost and space occupation of office equipment in existing conference machines to accommodate office use.

[0097] In some implementations, the system board includes a mode switching module; controlling the conference unit to switch between different working modes may include:

[0098] Get the working mode switching command.

[0099] For example, the working mode switching command can come from the button state switching of the mode switching module.

[0100] Based on the working mode switching command, the control mode switching module switches to the first state to control the conference machine to switch to the first working mode. Alternatively,

[0101] Based on the working mode switching command, the control mode switching module switches to the second state to control the conference machine to switch to the second working mode.

[0102] For example, the mode switching module may include a first state and a second state. For instance, in a button-structured mode switching module, the pressed state corresponds to the first state, and the released state corresponds to the second state. The first state may be triggered by a low-level pulse, and the second state may be triggered by a high-level pulse. When the mode switching module is switched to the first state, the system board 300 can send a first control signal to the first multiplexer board 400 and a second control signal to the second multiplexer board 500. The first control signal is used to disconnect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the display driver board 200, and to connect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board 400 and the system board 300. The second control signal is used to disconnect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the display driver board 200, and to connect the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board 500 and the system board 300. The first state of the mode switching module may correspond to the first working mode of the conference machine.

[0103] When the conference machine switches to the first working mode, the system board sends a first control signal to the first multiplexer board and a second control signal to the second multiplexer board. The first control signal is used to control the disconnection of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board and the display driver board, and to control the establishment of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board and the system board. The second control signal is used to control the disconnection of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board and the display driver board, and to control the establishment of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board and the system board.

[0104] When the conference machine switches to the second working mode, the system board sends a third control signal to the first multiplexer board and a fourth control signal to the second multiplexer board. The third control signal is used to control the disconnection of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board and the system board, and to control the establishment of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board and the display driver board. The fourth control signal is used to control the disconnection of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board and the system board, and to control the establishment of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board and the display driver board.

[0105] In some implementations, the external input signal ports include HDMI input ports and DP input ports; the control method may also include:

[0106] Detect whether the external port of the input signal is connected to an external signal source.

[0107] When both the HDMI input port and the DP input port are detected to be connected to an external signal source, a signal input selection prompt will pop up, allowing the user to select the external signal source input.

[0108] Obtain the user's first input selection command for external signal sources.

[0109] Based on the first input selection command, the signal transmission between the HDMI input channel and the DP input channel is switched.

[0110] For example, a prompt message for selecting signal input can pop up in both meeting mode and office mode.

[0111] In some implementations, the system board includes a camera path; the control method further includes:

[0112] When the conference machine switches to the second working mode, the camera input channel is disconnected.

[0113] When the conference machine switches to the first working mode, the camera input channel is activated; or...

[0114] The system includes multiple camera input channels. When the conference machine switches to the first working mode, it controls the disconnection of one or more camera input channels based on the second input selection command to establish one or more multimedia signal transmissions between the system board and the first multiplexer board.

[0115] In some embodiments, the system board includes a charging cable interface, a control circuit, a first data switching module, a second data switching module, and a charging switching module. The charging cable interface includes a first communication protocol detection pin, a second communication protocol detection pin, and a first insertion / removal detection pin. The control method further includes:

[0116] The signals of the first communication protocol detection pin, the second communication protocol detection pin, and the first insertion / removal detection pin are detected respectively;

[0117] And, receive charging mode switching instructions;

[0118] Based on the charging mode switching command, a mode switching signal is sent to the charging switching module. The mode switching signal includes a normal mode signal or a common mode signal.

[0119] A first detection signal is generated based on the signals from the first communication protocol detection pin, the second communication protocol detection pin, and the first insertion / removal detection pin, as well as the normal mode signal.

[0120] Based on the first detection signal, the reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface is activated when an external device is connected to the charging cable interface; or,

[0121] A second detection signal is generated based on the signals from the first communication protocol detection pin, the second communication protocol detection pin, and the first insertion / removal detection pin, as well as the common mode signal;

[0122] Based on the second detection signal, the transmission channel of the external port of the control output signal is turned on when an external device is connected to the external port of the output signal.

[0123] For example, the charging mode switching command can be generated based on the button state of the charging mode switching button.

[0124] Referring to Figure 7, the first communication protocol detection pin and the second communication protocol detection pin are respectively connected to the input terminals of the OR gate circuit. A selection switch is connected between the output terminal of the OR gate circuit and the first data switching module. The input terminals of the OR gate circuit are connected to CC1 and CC2, meaning that CC1 and CC2 are connected in parallel with the OR gate circuit. The OR gate circuit is connected in series with the selection switch, and the common mode charging signal (CC2) output by the selection switch is transmitted to the power management module 340 through the first data switching module Data Switch1. Control circuit 330 sends mode switching signals to the controllable switch and the selector switch. The first electrode of transistor Q1 is connected to the output terminal of the controllable switch, the second electrode of transistor Q1 is grounded, and the third electrode of transistor Q1 is used to receive the mode switching signal. The normal mode signal is used to control the controllable switch to be on, the selector switch to be off, and transistor Q1 to be off. That is, when control circuit 330 sends a normal mode signal to the controllable switch and the selector switch, the controllable switch is on, the selector switch is off, and transistor Q1 is off. Then the controllable switch can output the first detection signal, and the output of the first detection signal is unaffected. The selector switch has no signal output. The first detection signal controls the switching between the DP out Data2 and Type-C signals of the first data switching module Data Switch1 and the second data switching module Data Switch2. This can realize the selection of the transmission channel of the input signal external port. That is, when no external device is connected to the Type-C port, and an external device is connected to HDMI OUT1 and HDMI OUT2, under the control of the first detection signal, HDMI OUT1 and HDMI OUT2 can switch between the two ports. When the signal transmission channel corresponding to OUT1 is turned on, the Type-C port is connected to an external device. Under the control of the first detection signal, regardless of whether HDMI OUT1 and HDMI OUT1 are connected to an external device, the mode will be switched to Type-C port on, and HDMI OUT1 and HDMI OUT1 will be turned off.

[0125] Referring to Figure 7, the common mode signal can be used to control the controllable switch to open, the selector switch to open, and the transistor Q1 to open. The detection signal output by the controllable switch is then pulled low by Q1 grounding. The selector switch can output a common mode charging (CC2) signal, i.e., the second detection signal. When an external device is connected to the Type-C port, the power management module 340 can output a reverse charging signal to reverse charge the external device. Furthermore, since the output signal potential of the controllable switch is pulled low, the conduction of the transmission channel of the output signal external port is unaffected regardless of whether the Type-C port is connected to an external device. When an external device is connected to the output signal external port, it can remain constantly on. That is, the first data switching module Data Switch1 can also force HDMI OUT to remain constantly active. The Type-C interface can then achieve reverse charging and partial data signal transmission. The detection signal output by the controllable switch no longer follows the Type-C DET change and becomes constantly low. Regardless of whether a Type-C port is plugged in, it is in DPOUT mode (MSTHUB converted to HDMIOUT signal).

[0126] The conference machine provided in this embodiment adds a mode switching signal to the system board 300 to control the status of the Type-C DET detection signal and the detection signals CC1 and CC2, ensuring that HDMI OUT is maintained normally when switched to shared mode, while Type-C reverse charging can also be performed. In HDMI OUT display mode, the HPD signal occupies the CC1 signal channel, and the charging status signal occupies the CC2 signal channel, so that the power management module 340 can judge and control the charging status.

[0127] In normal mode, the CC1 / 2 signals are not output, thus not affecting the signal state logic in the original design. When switching to shared mode, the CC signal is output, occupying the CC2 channel. Since an OR gate is used at the front end, as long as the Type-C is connected, regardless of its orientation, the power management module 340 will determine that the Type-C is connected, enabling reverse charging. Since CC1 and CC2 are primarily used to determine the Type-C orientation and thus the data transmission channel, orientation determination is not required for charging alone, which also conforms to the USB Type-C protocol.

[0128] For example, the charging mode switching is controlled by an external button signal. Since the button signal is triggered by a low-level pulse, it will not remain in a low-level state indefinitely. The switching logic adopts a sequential rotation method, with the default being the normal mode. Pressing an odd-numbered button enters the shared mode, and pressing an even-numbered button enters the normal mode. Different mode signal level states are output according to different modes.

[0129] The conference machine provided in this application embodiment, according to the charging mode switching signal, when switched to the normal mode, determines the Type-C insertion status based on the CC1 / CC2 status to confirm whether to enable the reverse charging function; when switched to the shared mode, determines whether the external HDMI device is inserted based on the HPD signal, and determines whether the Type-C is inserted based on the CC1 / 2 signal to confirm whether to enable the reverse charging function. Since this mode does not switch to the full-function Type-C mode, the judgment in this case is not considered.

[0130] A third aspect of this application provides an office device, and FIG8 is a schematic structural block diagram of an office device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in FIG8, the office device includes: a conference machine 1000 as described in the first aspect.

[0131] In some examples, the office equipment may also include: a computer host, which is communicatively connected to the conference machine's first multiplexer board via an external input port. The computer host can serve as an external input device for the conference machine. For example, the computer host may include a laptop, tablet, or other smart electronic device.

[0132] In some examples, the office equipment may also include a secondary display screen that communicates with the conference machine's system board via an external output port. The secondary display screen can serve as an external output device for the conference machine.

[0133] It should be noted that the descriptions of each embodiment in the above embodiments have different focuses. For parts that are not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0134] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-readable storage media (including but not limited to disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-readable program code.

[0135] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this application. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart illustrations and / or one or more blocks of the block diagrams.

[0136] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means that implement the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0137] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide steps for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0138] This application also provides a computer program product, which includes computer software instructions that, when executed on a processing device, cause the processing device to execute the process of a conference machine control method.

[0139] A computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the flow or function according to the embodiments of this application is generated. The computer may be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, computer instructions may be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium that a computer can store or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium may be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., solid-state disk (SSD)).

[0140] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0141] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed devices, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, or indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0142] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0143] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0144] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods of the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0145] The foregoing description has described specific embodiments, which, along with other embodiments, are covered within the scope of the appended claims. In some cases, the actions or steps recited in the claims may be performed in a different order than those shown in the embodiments and may still achieve the desired results. Furthermore, the processes depicted in the drawings do not necessarily follow the specific or sequential order shown to achieve the desired results. In some embodiments, multitasking and parallel processing are also feasible or advantageous.

[0146] It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0147] It should be understood that the above-described embodiments are merely illustrative of the purpose of this invention and are not intended to limit the invention. Those skilled in the art can implement this invention in other ways without departing from its basic spirit and characteristics. The scope of this invention is defined by the appended claims, and any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of one or more embodiments of this specification should be covered herein.

Claims

1. A conference machine, wherein, include: monitor; Display driver board; The system board is equipped with an external port for output signals; The first multiple signal selection board is provided with an external input signal port, and the first multiple signal selection board is electrically connected to the input terminals of the system board and the display driver board respectively; The second multi-channel signal selection board is electrically connected to the output terminals of the system board, the display, and the display driver board, respectively.

2. The conference machine according to claim 1, wherein, The system board includes a mode switching module; The mode switching module is used to switch the working mode of the conference machine, and the working mode includes a first working mode and a second working mode. When the conference machine is in the first working mode, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multi-channel signal selection board and the display driver board is disconnected, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multi-channel signal selection board and the system board is connected, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multi-channel signal selection board and the display driver board is disconnected, and the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multi-channel signal selection board and the system board is connected. When the conference machine is in the second working mode, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multi-channel signal selection board and the display driver board is connected, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multi-channel signal selection board and the system board is disconnected, the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multi-channel signal selection board and the display driver board is connected, and the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multi-channel signal selection board and the system board is disconnected.

3. The conference machine according to claim 2, wherein, The external input signal ports include an HDMI input port and a DP input port; and / or, The external ports for output signals include HDMI output ports and DP output ports.

4. The conference machine according to claim 3, wherein, Also includes: An HDMI signal conversion module is used to convert the signal received by the HDMI input port into a MIPI signal. And / or, A DP signal conversion module is used to convert the signal received by the DP input port into a MIPI signal.

5. The conference machine according to claim 3, wherein, Also includes: A first signal switching module is disposed in at least one of the system board, the first multi-channel signal selection board, and the display driver board. The first signal switching module is used to switch the signal transmission between the HDMI input channel and the DP input channel based on a first input selection command when both the HDMI input port and the DP input port are connected to an external signal source.

6. The conference machine according to claim 3, wherein, The system board includes a camera input channel and a second signal switching module; The second signal switching module is used to disconnect the camera input channel in the second operating mode; The second signal switching module is used to turn on the camera input channel in the first working mode; or, The camera input channels include multiple channels. The second signal switching module is used to disconnect one or more of the camera input channels based on the second input selection command in the first working mode, and establish one or more multimedia signal transmission channels between the system board and the first multi-channel signal selection board.

7. The conference machine according to claim 1, wherein, The system board includes a power management module, a charging cable interface, a control circuit, a first data switching module, a second data switching module, and a charging switching module. The charging cable interface is used to transmit current and digital electrical signals. The charging cable interface is electrically connected to the charging switching module, the control circuit, the first data switching module, and the second data switching module, respectively. The output signal external port is electrically connected to the first data switching module and the second data switching module, respectively. The power management module is electrically connected to the first data switching module. The charging cable interface includes a first communication protocol detection pin, a second communication protocol detection pin, and a first insertion / removal detection pin. The charging switching module is electrically connected to the first communication protocol detection pin, the second communication protocol detection pin, the first insertion / removal detection pin, and the control circuit, respectively. The control circuit is used to send a mode switching signal to the charging switching module. The mode switching signal includes a normal mode signal and a common mode signal. The mode switching signal is generated based on the charging mode switching command. When the charging switching module receives the normal mode, it is in the normal charging mode. In the normal charging mode, when the charging cable interface is connected to an external device, the reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface is conductive. The reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface includes the charging cable interface, the first data switching module and the power management module connected to it. When the charging switching module receives the shared mode, it is in the shared charging mode. In the shared charging mode, when an external device is connected to the external output signal port, the transmission channel of the external output signal port is always on. The transmission channel of the external output signal port includes the external output signal port, the second data switching module, and the control circuit.

8. The conference machine according to claim 7, wherein, A fast charging protocol module is connected between the first data switching module and the second data switching module; The charging switching module includes an OR gate circuit, a controllable switch, a selector switch, and a transistor. The output terminal of the first insertion / removal detection pin is electrically connected to the input terminal of the controllable switch, and the output terminal of the controllable switch is electrically connected to the first data switching module and the second data switching module, respectively. The first communication protocol detection pin and the second communication protocol detection pin are respectively connected to the input terminal of the OR gate circuit, and the output terminal of the OR gate circuit is connected to the first data switching module by the selection switch; The control circuit is used to send the mode switching signal to the controllable switch and the selection switch. The first electrode of the transistor is connected to the output terminal of the controllable switch, the second electrode of the transistor is grounded, and the third electrode of the transistor is used to receive the mode switching signal. In the normal mode, the controllable switch is on, the selection switch is off, the transistor is off, the controllable switch outputs a first detection signal, and when an external device is connected to the charging cable interface, the reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface is on. In the shared mode, the controllable switch is off, the selection switch is on, the transistor is on, the selection switch outputs a second detection signal, and when an external device is connected to the external port of the output signal, the transmission channel of the external port of the output signal is always on.

9. A method for controlling a conference machine, wherein, The control method, applied to a conference machine as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, comprises: By controlling the multimedia signal transmission status between the system board and the first and second multi-channel signal selection boards, and controlling the multimedia signal transmission status between the display driver board and the first and second multi-channel signal selection boards, the conference machine can be controlled to switch between different working modes. The multimedia signal transmission status includes a multimedia signal transmission on state and a multimedia signal transmission off state.

10. The conference machine control method according to claim 9, wherein, The system board includes a mode switching module; Controlling the conference machine to switch between different working modes includes: Get the working mode switching command; Based on the aforementioned working mode switching command, the control mode switching module switches to the first state to control the conference machine to switch to the first working mode; or, Based on the working mode switching command, the mode switching module is controlled to switch to the second state, thereby controlling the conference machine to switch to the second working mode; in, When the conference machine switches to the first working mode, the system board sends a first control signal to the first multiplexer board and a second control signal to the second multiplexer board. The first control signal is used to control the disconnection of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board and the display driver board, and to control the establishment of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board and the system board. The second control signal is used to control the disconnection of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board and the display driver board, and to control the establishment of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board and the system board. When the conference machine switches to the second working mode, the system board sends a third control signal to the first multiplexer board and a fourth control signal to the second multiplexer board. The third control signal is used to control the disconnection of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board and the system board, and to control the establishment of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the first multiplexer board and the display driver board. The fourth control signal is used to control the disconnection of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board and the system board, and to control the establishment of the multimedia signal transmission channel between the second multiplexer board and the display driver board.

11. The conference machine control method according to claim 10, wherein, The external input signal ports include an HDMI input port and a DP input port; The method further includes: Detect whether the external port of the input signal is connected to an external signal source; When it is detected that both the HDMI input port and the DP input port are connected to an external signal source, a signal input selection prompt will pop up, allowing the user to select the external signal source input. Obtain the user's first input selection command for the external signal source; Based on the first input selection command, the signal transmission of the HDMI input channel and the DP input channel is switched.

12. The conference machine control method according to claim 11, wherein, The system board includes a camera path; The method further includes: When the conference machine switches to the second working mode, the camera input channel is disconnected. When the conference machine switches to the first working mode, the camera input channel is activated; or, The camera input channels include multiple channels. When the conference machine is in the first working mode, one or more of the camera input channels are disconnected based on the second input selection command to establish one or more multimedia signal transmissions between the system board and the first multi-channel signal selection board.

13. The conference machine control method according to claim 11, wherein, The system board includes a charging cable interface, a control circuit, a first data switching module, a second data switching module, and a charging switching module. The charging cable interface includes a first communication protocol detection pin, a second communication protocol detection pin, and a first insertion / removal detection pin. The method further includes: The signals of the first communication protocol detection pin, the second communication protocol detection pin, and the first insertion / removal detection pin are detected respectively; And, receive charging mode switching instructions; Based on the charging mode switching command, a mode switching signal is sent to the charging switching module. The mode switching signal includes a normal mode signal or a common mode signal. A first detection signal is generated based on the signals from the first communication protocol detection pin, the second communication protocol detection pin, and the first insertion / removal detection pin, as well as the normal mode signal. Based on the first detection signal, the reverse charging channel of the charging cable interface is activated when an external device is connected to the charging cable interface; or, A second detection signal is generated based on the signals from the first communication protocol detection pin, the second communication protocol detection pin, and the first insertion / removal detection pin, as well as the common mode signal; Based on the second detection signal, the transmission channel of the external port of the control output signal is turned on when an external device is connected to the external port of the output signal.

14. An office device, wherein, include: The conference machine as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

15. The office equipment according to claim 14, wherein, Also includes: The computer host is connected to the first multiplexer board of the conference machine via an external input signal port. And / or, The secondary display screen is connected to the system board of the conference machine via an external port for output signals.

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