Expandable AV Adapter With Magnetic Coupling And Power Negotiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Audio-visual devices and source devices often have incompatible ports, requiring adapters and cables to establish a connection, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An expandable audio-visual adapter module with multi-port voltage and power management circuitry, comprising a base module and an expansion module that can be mechanically, electrically, and magnetically coupled, featuring USB Type-C connectors and power delivery circuitry to negotiate power delivery between the host device, expansion module, and external power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters and cables are used to connect incompatible ports, then compatibility between source device and A/V device is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple port types (USB Type-C, USB Type-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, audio jack) into a single integrated adapter module. The base module houses multiple connectors and coupling mechanisms that allow one adapter to replace multiple separate adapters and cables, reducing system complexity while maintaining broad compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter module is designed as a universal interface that can connect to various port types simultaneously. The base module includes multiple different connector types and coupling mechanisms, allowing a single device to serve multiple connection purposes and work with different A/V devices without requiring separate adapters for each connection type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters and cables are used to ensure compatible connections, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple connection interfaces into a single integrated module, the user only needs to connect one adapter rather than multiple separate adapters and cables. The magnetic coupling mechanism further simplifies operation by allowing automatic alignment and connection without precise manual positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection methods with magnetic coupling mechanisms. The magnetic attraction automatically guides and secures the expansion module to the base module, eliminating the need for manual alignment and insertion that would be required with traditional mechanical connectors.
3Reliability
If mechanical and electrical coupling is implemented for expansion modules, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic coupling elements as an intermediary force between the base module and expansion module. These magnetic elements mediate the connection by providing automatic attraction and alignment, ensuring reliable electrical contact while simplifying the mechanical interface requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling mechanism enables self-alignment and self-connection of the expansion module to the base module. The magnetic attraction automatically guides the modules into proper alignment and secures the connection without requiring manual positioning or complex mechanical fastening mechanisms.
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
Facilitates seamless connections between diverse audio-visual devices and source devices by providing a universal adapter system that manages power delivery effectively, ensuring compatibility and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second ferromagnetic elements magnetically couple the first housing to the second housing when the first and second connectors are mechanically and electrically coupled
Data Source
AI summary
A USB Type-C audio-visual adapter system includes a base module and an expansion module. The base module has a first housing with a first face and a second face, where the first face includes USB and A/V connectors and the second face includes a first expansion connector. The second face is offset inwardly from an edge of the first housing defined by a lip extending about the second face. The expansion module has a second housing with a first face that includes a second expansion connector, where the first face of the second housing is configured to be received within a recessed area formed by the lip of first housing to facilitate mechanical and electrical coupling of the first and second expansion connectors.