Modular Control Interface Multi-Pin Connector for Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The efficiency of modular portable communication devices is limited by the quality of the interface between the base device and add-on modules, with existing interfaces being too slow, power-intensive, and complex for effective operation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-pin connector array with a command/control pin is used to detect and manage the docking of add-on modules, supporting multiple data exchange interfaces with varying data rates and enabling efficient data transmission through a multi-rate interface, including high, medium, low, audio, and DC interfaces, while managing power and mode changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard USB interface is used for connection between base device and add-on module, then the interface is widely compatible and easy to implement, but the data transfer speed is too slow and power consumption is too high
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into multiple independent contact pins, each dedicated to specific functions (power, ground, data transmit, data receive, control). This segmentation allows optimized signal paths for high-speed data transfer while separating power and control functions, resolving the contradiction between compatibility and speed by creating a specialized yet modular interface structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface parameters are changed from standard USB specifications to customized high-speed parameters. The contact resistance is minimized, signal impedance is optimized for high-frequency operation, and voltage levels are adjusted to enable faster data transfer rates while maintaining compatibility with standard power delivery requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a standard USB interface is used for connection between base device and add-on module, then the interface is widely compatible and easy to implement, but the power consumption is too high
Solution Approach 1:
The high-power USB protocol overhead and unnecessary control mechanisms are extracted and removed from the interface design. Only the essential functions (power delivery, data transfer, basic control) are retained and optimized, reducing power consumption while maintaining compatibility with standard power delivery standards.
Solution Approach 2:
Power delivery parameters are optimized by adjusting voltage and current levels to match actual module requirements rather than using fixed USB power profiles. This allows efficient power transfer at lower consumption levels while maintaining compatibility with standard charging implementations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a standard USB interface is used for connection between base device and add-on module, then the interface is widely compatible and easy to implement, but the interface structure is too complicated for ready adoption
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into clearly defined functional groups (power contacts, ground contacts, data contacts, control contacts), each with standardized assignments. This segmentation simplifies the overall structure by organizing complexity into manageable, easily understood functional blocks that are straightforward to implement and adopt.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface is designed with universal multi-functionality where certain contacts can serve multiple purposes depending on the connected module. For example, data contacts can function as either transmit or receive based on direction requirements, and control contacts can handle various module-specific commands. This universality reduces the number of dedicated pins needed while maintaining full functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular portable device system and method improves the quality of the interface between a core device and an add-on module via an interconnection system specifically applicable to modular systems. A multi-pin connector array accessible from outside the base device is configured and located to electrically connect to a mating array on the add-on module when the two devices are docked. In an embodiment, the multi-pin connector array includes a command/control pin configured to support multiple functions such as, but not limited to, device detection, interrupt functions, mode changes and wake functions.