Electronic Device Socket Indication via Wireless Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in correctly connecting cables to electronic devices due to similar-looking sockets that can carry different types of signals, making it challenging to ensure proper audio and video signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
The method involves one device detecting a cable connection and transmitting a wireless signal to indicate the type of signal and socket, allowing the second device to indicate the correct corresponding socket for the cable connection, simplifying the process by illuminating or displaying the location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sockets are provided on electronic devices for different signal types, then the device can support multiple signal transmission functions, but it becomes difficult for users to identify and connect to the correct socket
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual indicators (such as LEDs or color-coded markings) near each socket to display color codes or patterns that correspond to the signal type. This allows users to quickly identify the correct socket for audio, video, or other signals without confusion, while maintaining multiple socket types for different functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary indication system between the socket and the user. This system includes visual indicators, icons, or labels that mediate the connection between the physical socket and the user's understanding of its function, making socket identification intuitive and error-free.
2Device complexity
If similar-looking sockets are used for different signal types, then the device design becomes compact and standardized, but users cannot easily distinguish between them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding distinctive visual indicators specifically at the location of each socket. While the sockets themselves maintain a standardized design, the surrounding area features unique color codes, icons, or lighting patterns that differentiate each socket's function without altering the socket structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different color codes or lighting patterns are assigned to different socket types. For example, blue indicators for audio sockets, green for video sockets, and red for power sockets. This allows standardized sockets to be easily differentiated through their local visual characteristics.
3Ease of operation
If cable connection information is not provided, then the connection process is simple, but users may connect cables to wrong sockets causing signal transmission errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides preliminary information about the correct socket connection before the user actually connects the cable. Visual indicators are activated or displayed in advance to guide users to the correct socket, preventing wrong connections before they occur and ensuring reliable signal transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to the user during the connection process. Indicators show which socket is correct, and may provide confirmation when a cable is properly connected. This feedback loop ensures users connect cables to the correct sockets, maintaining both simplicity and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
First and second electronic devices are provided in which in use one of the devices acts as a source of at least one of video and audio which is sent to the other device over a cable. The first device detects that a cable connector of a cable has been connected to the socket of the first device. The first device transmits a wireless signal for receipt by the second device. The wireless signal indicates at least one of the type of signal that is output or input at that socket of the first device and the type of socket for that socket of the first device. In response to the second device receiving the wireless signal, the second device indicates a corresponding socket on the second device to which a cable connector at the other end of the cable should be connected.