Charging Cable Interface Switching Without Extra Signal Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current charging systems require additional pins or signal lines to enable communication between power supply apparatus, terminal devices, and charging cables, increasing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A charging cable with a data interface and a control module that switches its working state based on communication information from power supply apparatus or terminal devices, allowing communication without the need for additional pins or signal lines, using existing data transmission lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional pins or signal lines are added to enable communication between power supply apparatus, terminal device and charging cable, then communication capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling existing data transmission lines (D+ and D- pins) to serve dual purposes: both data transmission and communication between the power supply apparatus, terminal device, and charging cable. The control module in the charging cable manages this by switching its working state based on communication information, allowing the same physical pins to perform multiple functions without adding new components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional pins or signal lines are added to enable communication, then communication capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces manufacturing cost by making existing components multi-functional. The D+ and D- data transmission lines, which already exist in USB charging cables, are made to perform both their original data transmission function and a new communication function. This eliminates the need to manufacture additional pins or signal lines, directly reducing material and assembly costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging cable's control module autonomously manages the communication process by monitoring communication information and switching its own working state. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional control components in the power supply apparatus or terminal device, reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing cost.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a charging cable, a terminal device, and a communication method. The charging cable includes a data interface and a first control module. The data interface is connected to a power supply apparatus and a terminal device. The first control module includes an interface unit and a control unit. The interface unit is connected with the data interface so as to communicate, through the data interface, with the power supply apparatus and the terminal device. The control unit is configured to switch the working state of the interface unit based on communication information, when the interface unit receives the communication information transmitted from the power supply apparatus or the terminal device, where the working state includes a receiving state and an output state.