Active Optical Cable Multiplexer for DP/USB Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing active optical cables lack the flexibility to automatically identify and switch between different signal transmission modes, such as DP and USB, to adapt to various application scenarios, limiting their functionality and compatibility with USB Type-C interfaces.
Innovation Solution
An active optical cable equipped with a multiplexer that selects between multiple optical fibers to form valid channels for signal transmission, controlled by a chip analyzing link information on CC pins to switch between DP and USB modes, and optoelectronic conversion circuits to ensure correct signal routing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a traditional copper cable is used, then the cable structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the transmission distance is limited and the bending radius is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional copper conductor mechanical system with an optical fiber transmission system. The active optical cable uses optical fibers instead of copper wires to achieve longer transmission distances and smaller bending radii, fundamentally substituting the mechanical electrical signal transmission with optical signal transmission through fiber optics.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cable supports multiple signal transmission modes, then the adaptability to different scenarios is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by integrating multiple optical fibers (first optical fiber for DP mode, second optical fiber for USB mode) within a single cable structure. The cable can automatically adapt to different transmission modes (DP only, USB 2.0+DP, USB3.0/3.1+DP) by selecting the appropriate optical fiber channel, making one cable suitable for multiple application scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic channel selection through multiplexers that can switch between different optical fiber channels based on the detected transmission mode. The cable structure dynamically adapts its signal path by activating only the required optical fiber (first or second) depending on whether DP-only or USB+DP mode is needed, rather than using fixed dedicated channels.
3Ease of operation
If automatic mode switching is implemented, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automatic mode detection and channel selection mechanisms. The cable includes detection circuits that automatically identify the connection scenario (DP-only device or USB Type-C device) and autonomously select the appropriate optical fiber channel without user intervention. The system self-configures the signal transmission path based on the detected device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms where the cable detects signals from the connected device (such as CC pin signals in USB Type-C) to determine the required transmission mode, then feeds this information back to the multiplexer control to switch the appropriate optical channel. This closed-loop detection and control enables automatic adaptation to different connection scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are an active optical cable and a method for switching a communication mode thereof. The active optical cable comprises a first connector for being connected to a Source; a second connector for being connected to a Sink; a cable located between the first connector and the second connector and comprising a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber; and a multiplexer with one end coupled to a high-speed signal pin of the first connector or the second connector and one end coupled to the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber, and used for selecting one of the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber as a valid channel. Through the solution provided by the disclosure, signal transmission requirements in multiple use scenarios are adapted, full-function switching of USB and/or DP data of the active optical cable based on a Type-C interface is realized.