Accessory Interface Multiplexing Single Signal Line
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication devices, such as portable radios, face challenges in reducing the size and cost of accessory interfaces due to high pin counts, which also pose risks in public safety environments where contact damage is a concern.
Innovation Solution
The interface between the accessory and radio multiplexes functions over a single signal line using voltage dividers and comparators, enabling accessory detect, one-wire memory, and push-to-talk functions, reducing the number of contacts and parts required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple accessory functions are supported over separate signal lines, then functional reliability and ease of detection are improved, but pin count and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines accessory detect, one-wire memory, and PTT press functions onto a single signal line. The system uses a single connector pin instead of multiple pins, reducing complexity while maintaining all necessary functions through time-multiplexed communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The single signal line is designed to universally handle multiple functions including accessory detection, memory communication, and push-to-talk control. The interface uses a universal communication protocol that can distinguish between different function types on the same physical line.
2Volume of moving object
If accessory functions are remoted to reduce radio size, then portability is improved, but accessory interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple interface functions into a single connector pin and signal line. By combining accessory detect, one-wire memory, and PTT press onto one signal path, the overall parts count and interface complexity are reduced, enabling smaller accessory form factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory interface is designed as a universal multi-functional connection that can handle detection, data communication, and control functions through a single connector, reducing the number of components needed in both the radio and accessory units.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple contacts are used in the connector, then functional versatility is improved, but exposure to damage in harsh environments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple connector contacts into a single contact point. By consolidating accessory detect, one-wire memory, and PTT press functions onto one connector pin, the number of exposed contacts is minimized, reducing vulnerability to damage in harsh public safety environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The single connector contact is designed to universally support multiple functions through protocol-based differentiation. This multi-functional approach maintains full operational versatility while physically exposing only one contact point to environmental hazards.
Data Source
AI summary
An interface (100) is provided between an accessory (102) and a radio (104) to enable three functions over a single signal line (140) thereby minimizing pin count in a connector (112). The functions of accessory detect, one-wire memory and accessory PTT press are controlled over the single signal line (140) through the use of two comparators (116, 118) and two voltage dividers (106, 108, 110).