Synchronous Clock Regeneration via Fixed-Rate Serial Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Digital Visual Interface (DVI) and High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) systems face limitations in distance due to high data rates and low voltage levels, requiring multiple optical fibers for data transmission, which increases cost and complexity, and struggle with variable data rates and bi-directional control data communication.
Innovation Solution
The method involves converting frequency-dependent data to frequency-independent data, transmitting at a fixed rate, and using a single optical fiber with a sheath and tension member for bi-directional communication, reducing the number of channels needed and maintaining data integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If multiple optical fibers are used for data transmission to increase distance, then transmission distance is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple data channels (three graphic data channels plus clock and control channels) into a single optical fiber transmission medium. This is achieved by converting the parallel data streams into a serial transmission format, allowing multiple signals to share the same physical fiber infrastructure, thereby reducing the total number of fibers required while maintaining extended transmission distance capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical fiber is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: transmitting graphic data, clock signals, upstream control data, and downstream control data. The system uses time-division multiplexing and protocol-based channel identification to enable one fiber to serve as a universal transmission medium for all interface requirements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated fibers for each function
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple channels are used for bi-directional communication, then communication capability is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic time-division multiplexing where upstream and downstream communication channels share the same physical medium in alternating time periods. The transmitter and receiver take turns transmitting data in distinct time slots, enabling bi-directional communication over a single channel without simultaneous transmission conflicts, thus maintaining full communication capability while reducing hardware requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system dynamically switches between upstream and downstream transmission modes based on the operational requirements. The protocol enables flexible allocation of transmission time and adapts the communication direction based on data flow needs, allowing the system to optimize performance for different communication scenarios while using a reduced channel configuration
3Adaptability or versatility
If variable data rates are transmitted, then data transmission flexibility is improved, but data integrity and synchronization become difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The system manages variable data rates by implementing a clock recovery mechanism that dynamically adjusts the timing parameters of the transmission. The receiver continuously monitors the incoming data stream and automatically synchronizes its internal clock to match the transmitter's variable rate, ensuring data integrity is maintained despite changes in transmission speed. This parameter adaptation allows flexible data rate variation while preserving synchronization and data accuracy
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces the number of optical fibers required, lowers system costs, and enables efficient bi-directional control data communication without increasing costs, while maintaining data quality and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting the data over an optical fiber to increase the distance between the source and display
Implementation Method 2
converting each electrical bit into an optical on/off state using a laser
Implementation Method 3
The receiver at the other end of the fiber will use an optical detector and electronics to convert the optical state into an electrical state
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method transmits data received at varying frequencies at a fixed data rate. The frequency dependent data and associated data clock signal are received and the frequency dependent data is converted to frequency independent data. A ratio of a number of data clock cycles to a number of reference clock cycles is determined and transmitted. The frequency independent data and header data are transmitted, at a fixed rate, to a receiver, the fixed rate being a frequency greater than the frequency of the associated data clock signal. The received the frequency independent data is converted to frequency dependent data based upon the received determined ratio. The communication channel may include an optical fiber and a tension member wherein control data is transmitted along the tension member and graphic data is transmitted along the optical fiber.