Bidirectional Interface Circuit for Dynamic Video Input Output

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing video transmission interfaces require separate ports for video input and output, leading to complex structures and a high likelihood of user misoperation when a device needs to perform both functions.

Innovation Solution

A data transmission method for electronic devices that utilizes a bidirectional interface, such as a Type-C port, to identify whether a connected device is a source or sink and accordingly connect it to either a display sending or receiving module, simplifying the structure and reducing the risk of misoperation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate video input and output ports are used, then video data input and output functions are achieved, but device structure becomes complex and user misoperation risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevideo data input and output functionVSAvoidinterface structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by enabling a single video interface to perform both video input and video output functions. The interface circuit can dynamically switch between receiving video data from an external device and sending video data to an external device, eliminating the need for separate dedicated input and output ports while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics through dynamic role assignment and switching. The electronic device can dynamically determine whether to operate as a source device or sink device based on connection detection, and the interface circuit dynamically switches between input and output modes accordingly. This dynamic adaptability allows one interface to serve multiple purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate video input and output ports are used, then video data input and output functions are achieved, but user misoperation risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevideo data input and output functionVSAvoiduser operation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service through automatic role detection and negotiation. When an external device connects, the system automatically detects the device type (source or sink), determines the appropriate communication mode, and configures the interface accordingly without requiring user intervention. This eliminates confusion about which port to use and how to connect devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors connection status, device types, and communication modes. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts the interface configuration and switches between input and output modes, ensuring correct operation without user error.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Device complexity

If a bidirectional interface is used for both video input and output, then device structure is simplified, but interface function switching complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterface structureVSAvoidinterface function switching
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining role assignment rules and switching logic. The system is configured in advance with detection algorithms and switching criteria, so when a connection is made, the appropriate function mode is automatically selected based on pre-established protocols, minimizing real-time decision complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4280072B1Data transmission method of electronic device, electronic device, and interface circuit
Publication Date: 2025.05.21 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • EP4280072B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4280072B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP4280072B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A data transmission method for an electronic device, an electronic device, and an interface circuit are provided. The method includes: after a peer device is inserted into a bidirectional interface, determining a device type of the peer device and a device type of the electronic device; and after it is determined that the device type of the electronic device is a sink device, sending multimedia data sent by the peer device to a display receiving processor of the electronic device through the bidirectional interface; or after it is determined that the device type of the electronic device is a source device, sending multimedia data generated by a display sending processor of the electronic device to the peer device through the bidirectional interface. The multiplexing of display sending and display receiving is implemented on one bidirectional interface, so that a structure is simpler and a probability of a misoperation by a user is reduced.