Interposer Multiplexer Routing HDMI USB 2.0 to USB 3.0 PCIe

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic devices face challenges in accommodating increasing data processing capabilities and consumer demands for multiple high-speed interfaces within smaller form factors, leading to the need for multiple peripheral bus connectors that increase costs and complexity.

Innovation Solution

A communication connector or interposer that repurposes conductors from HDMI and USB 2.0 connectors to provide compatibility with USB 3.0 and PCIe interfaces, using a multiplexer to selectively route high-speed signals through a single set of physical connectors, allowing for four peripheral bus interfaces (HDMI, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, and PCIe) to be supported using only two physical connectors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple peripheral bus connectors are added to support USB 3.0, PCIe, and HDMI interfaces, then interface compatibility and functionality are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface compatibilityVSAvoidconnector quantity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a single physical connector that can function as multiple different peripheral bus interfaces (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, PCIe, HDMI) through software-controlled signal routing. The connector hardware is designed with sufficient conductors to support all interface types, and a multiplexer dynamically assigns different signal paths based on the detected device type, allowing one connector to replace what would traditionally require four separate connectors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically reconfigures the connector's function based on the detected peripheral device type. When a device is connected, the system identifies its interface requirements and automatically routes the appropriate signals through the multiplexer to the correct conductors. This dynamic adaptation allows the same physical connector to serve different interface standards without requiring manual configuration or hardware switching.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple peripheral bus connectors are added to support various high-speed interfaces, then consumer demand for diverse interfaces is met, but form factor and sleek appearance are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface varietyVSAvoidform factor

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

By designing a single physical connector capable of supporting multiple interface standards (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, PCIe, HDMI), the patent eliminates the need for multiple separate connectors. This universal connector approach maintains a sleek, compact device form factor while providing consumers with access to diverse high-speed interfaces through intelligent software-controlled signal routing and multiplexer management.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8959272B2Interposer and intelligent multiplexer to provide a plurality of peripherial buses

Publication Date: 2015.02.17 MALIKIE INNOVATIONS LTD

AI summary

A communication connector is described that provides an increase in the number and type of communication circuits available on an electronic device without increasing the number and type of physical connectors. The communication connector electrically includes a set of inputs to couple to both a USB 2.0 connector and a HDMI connector. A set of outputs from the communication connector provides a third connector with a pin out specification compatible with a USB 3.0 connector or a PCIe connector.