HDMI CEC Bridging Across Separate Lines Using Virtual Network Blocks

The patent segments the CEC network into multiple virtual network blocks (VNBs), where each VNB manages a local CEC line segment. This segmentation allows the overall communication distance to be extended by chaining multiple VNBs together, while each individual VNB maintains reliable communication within its own segment, thus resolving the contradiction between extended cable length and maintained signal integrity.

The patent introduces VNBs as intermediary devices that bridge separate CEC lines. These VNBs act as mediators that receive CEC messages from one CEC line, convert them into packets, and transmit them to other VNBs connected to different CEC lines. This intermediary mechanism enables communication beyond the normal HDMI cable length limitation while maintaining communication reliability through controlled message forwarding.

The patent merges multiple separate CEC lines into a unified virtual CEC network through VNBs. Although the physical CEC lines remain separate, the VNBs create a logical integration that allows devices on different physical lines to communicate as if they were on the same line. This merging approach extends network coverage while preserving device interoperability across line boundaries.

The VNB is designed as a universal device that can interface with multiple different CEC lines and facilitate communication between any devices connected to these lines. This multi-functional capability allows the system to adapt to various network configurations and enable interoperability between devices on previously isolated CEC lines, thus resolving the contradiction between extended coverage and maintained versatility.