Connector Terminal Arrangement for Error Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Connecting information processing apparatuses using multiple cables can lead to erroneous connections due to mismatched signal directions or incorrect connector insertion, resulting in poor communication or data transmission failures.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with an external device via two cables, featuring identical connectors with specific terminal arrangements and a notification system to alert errors if the second terminal receives a predetermined signal during startup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple cables are used for data communication between information processing apparatuses, then communication capacity is improved, but the risk of erroneous connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the information processing apparatus inspect the connection state of each cable before actual data communication begins. The controller checks whether each cable is connected to the correct apparatus by verifying signal transmission, and only after successful inspection does the system proceed with normal communication. This prevents erroneous connections from causing communication failures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by having the receiving side apparatus send inspection signals back to the transmitting side apparatus to verify cable connections. The controller receives feedback signals indicating whether each cable is correctly connected, and based on this feedback, the system either proceeds with communication or displays an error message to alert the user of incorrect connection. This closed-loop verification ensures connection accuracy.
2Reliability
If connector shapes are changed to prevent erroneous connection, then connection accuracy is improved, but versatility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using identical connector shapes for both transmitting side and receiving side apparatuses. Instead of creating different connector types to prevent erroneous connection, the system uses universal connectors that can be plugged in either direction, combined with intelligent inspection logic that verifies correct connection. This maintains versatility while ensuring connection accuracy through software-based verification rather than hardware differentiation.
3Reliability
If cable connection inspection is performed, then connection accuracy is improved, but time and effort are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by having the information processing apparatus automatically inspect and verify cable connections without requiring manual intervention. The controller autonomously sends inspection signals through each cable, receives feedback signals, and determines connection status. This automated self-verification process eliminates the need for manual connection checking by technicians, reducing both time and effort while maintaining high connection accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus capable of preventing erroneous connection at a time of connection using cables without deteriorating versatility. The information processing apparatus is communicable with an external device via two cables. A first connector is connected to one of the two cables and has terminals, which include a first terminal that is arranged at a first position and receives a predetermined signal output according to start-up of the external device. A second connector of a same shape as the first connector is connected to another of the two cables and that has terminals, which are identical to the terminals of the first connector in number and arrangement and include a second terminal that is not used to output a signal and is arranged at a position corresponding to the first terminal. A controller notifies of an error through a notification device when the second terminal receives the predetermined signal.