Video Decoder Analog Connection Detection Circuit

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional video decoders cannot automatically detect analog connections with display devices, requiring manual user configuration and lacking the ability to communicate connection information.

Innovation Solution

A video and/or audio decoder with a circuit capable of comparing voltage or current levels on an analog output terminal with a reference signal to determine connection status, using a digital-to-analog converter, amplifier, and impedance matching circuit to generate a load connection detect signal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a video decoder is equipped with analog video outputs for compatibility with older installations, then adaptability with display devices is improved, but automatic connection detection capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with display devicesVSAvoidautomatic connection detection

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary detection circuit that mediates between the analog output terminal and the decoder's control system. This circuit includes a voltage comparator that compares the voltage at the analog output terminal with a reference voltage to generate a connection detection signal, enabling automatic detection without requiring digital communication protocols between the decoder and display device

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual configuration mechanism (mechanical/user-based) with an automatic electrical detection mechanism. The detection circuit uses electrical signals (voltage comparison) to automatically determine connection status, substituting the need for manual user intervention and configuration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If manual configuration is required for analog connections, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedecoder structureVSAvoiduser configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The detection circuit enables the decoder to automatically detect and determine connection status without user intervention. The system serves itself by using the presence or absence of a load at the analog output terminal to automatically generate connection detection information, eliminating the need for manual configuration while adding minimal complexity to the device

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Extent of automation

If standardized communication protocols are used for digital links, then automatic connection detection is improved, but compatibility with older analog installations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection detectionVSAvoidcompatibility with display devices

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The detection circuit provides a universal detection mechanism that works across different connection types. By using fundamental electrical properties (voltage presence/comparison) rather than protocol-specific communication, the circuit can detect connections in analog installations while maintaining compatibility with various display devices, achieving multi-functionality without requiring standardized protocols

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enables automatic detection of analog connections, allowing the decoder to communicate connection information to the display device, simplifying user configuration and enhancing compatibility with various display devices.

Implementation Method 1

a digital-to-analog converter capable of receiving as an input said digital signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDigital-to-analog conversion:

Implementation Method 2

an amplifier coupling a second output terminal of the digital-to-analog converter to the first terminal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical amplification:

Implementation Method 3

a second circuit capable of comparing a signal representative of the voltage or current level on the first terminal with a reference signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVoltage comparison:

Data Source

PatentUS10368028B2Detection of an analog connection in a video decoder

Publication Date: 2019.07.30 STMICROELECTRONICS INT NV

AI summary

A video and/or audio decoder provided with a first terminal for supplying an analog audio and/or video signal, including: a first circuit capable of supplying a digital signal which is an image of said analog signal; a digital-to-analog converter capable of receiving as an input said digital signal; an amplifier coupling a second output terminal of the digital-to-analog converter to the first terminal; and a second circuit capable of comparing a signal representative of the voltage or current level on the first terminal with a reference signal, and of deducing therefrom whether the first terminal is connected or not to an analog input terminal of a video signal display and/or audio signal playing device.