Electronic Device Adapter Segmentation for Simultaneous Charging

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Solution Overview

Problem

When auxiliary devices with different standards, such as earphones, are connected to electronic devices through adapters, it often blocks the charging port, preventing simultaneous charging and usage.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device system that identifies and controls external devices connected via an external conversion device, allowing for the management of connections and power supply while enabling simultaneous use and charging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an adapter is used to connect auxiliary devices with different standards, then compatibility between devices is improved, but the charging port becomes blocked and cannot be used simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecompatibilityVSAvoidcharging port accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter is divided into separate functional segments: a first adapter portion that connects to the electronic device's connector, and a second adapter portion that connects to the auxiliary device. This segmentation allows the charging cable to connect to the first adapter portion while the auxiliary device connects to the second adapter portion, resolving the port blocking issue while maintaining compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If an adapter is interposed between the ear jack and connector, then connection compatibility is improved, but the connector becomes occupied and charging is prevented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection compatibilityVSAvoidconnector availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter serves as an intermediary device with distinct connection points: the first adapter portion interfaces with the electronic device's connector, while the second adapter portion interfaces with the auxiliary device. This intermediary structure enables both charging (through the first portion) and auxiliary device connection (through the second portion) to occur simultaneously without conflict.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3912045B1Electronic device for controlling external conversion device
Publication Date: 2024.08.07 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3912045B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3912045B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3912045B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

In one embodiment, an electronic device controls an external conversion device connected to an external device. The electronic device includes a connection terminal formed on a portion of an outer surface thereof, a first converter connected to the connection terminal and configured to convert signals, and a processor operatively connected to the first converter. The processor is configured, when the external conversion device is connected to the connection terminal, and the external device is connected to the external conversion device, to identify a type of the external device connected to the external conversion device by receiving an operation signal of the external device through the external conversion device, the connection terminal, and the first converter, and to input or output a signal corresponding to the external device through the external conversion device.