Connector Switching for Video Signal Priority Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current information processing devices lack the ability for users to freely set the priority of interface connectors that output video signals, limiting flexibility in connecting and managing external displays.

Innovation Solution

An information processing device with multiple output ports, connectors, detectors, and switches, controlled by a processor and controller that allows users to set priority based on connection states and stored setting information, enabling flexible video signal output management across various external displays.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple connectors are provided for connecting external displays, then connectivity and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveconnectivityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multiple connectors (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB Type-C) that can all output video signals, allowing the system to adapt to different display types and connection preferences. Each connector type serves multiple potential functions but is configured to provide video output capability, enhancing versatility without requiring separate dedicated outputs for each interface type.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches video signal routing based on connector priority settings and detection of connected displays. The controller automatically determines which connector receives the video output by evaluating priority levels assigned to each connector type, enabling flexible adaptation to different connection scenarios without manual reconfiguration or hardwired assignments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If automatic connector selection is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary configuration by allowing users to assign priority levels to each connector in advance. These priority settings are stored and automatically applied when external displays are connected, eliminating the need for real-time manual selection while maintaining user preferences across different connection scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The controller continuously monitors which connectors have external displays connected and uses this feedback information alongside the stored priority settings to automatically determine video signal routing. The system adapts its behavior based on real-time connection status while respecting pre-configured user preferences, balancing automation with adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11483511B2Information processing device and connector switching method
Publication Date: 2022.10.25 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US11483511B2 patent drawing
  • US11483511B2 patent drawing
  • US11483511B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing device includes a processor, a plurality of connectors that output video signals to a plurality of connected external displays, a plurality of detectors that detect connection states of the plurality of connectors to the plurality of external displays, a plurality of switches that switch paths between a plurality of output ports and the plurality of connectors, and a controller that controls a switching operation of the plurality of switches. The controller has setting information that defines a relationship between the connection states of the plurality of connectors and at least one connector that outputs at least one of video signals among the plurality of connectors, and controls a switching operation of the plurality of switches based on the connection states detected by the plurality of detectors and the setting information. The setting information is set by the user.