Multi-Connector Electronic Device Impedance Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices with multiple connectors lack a method to determine connection states and provide corresponding operation functions for different host systems, limiting user diversity and functionality.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device with multiple connection interfaces, a transmission control device, and a channel-detecting device that determines connection states based on impedance information to provide appropriate operation functions, including multimedia access, data input/output, and information security certification, using communication channels and power buses to manage connections and operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple connectors are provided to enable different host systems to access the same device simultaneously, then user diversity and accessibility are improved, but the complexity of determining connection states and managing transmission channels increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAbility to connect to different host systemsVSAvoidComplexity of connection state determination
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical or manual connection management with an automated electrical detection system. The transmission control device uses electrical connection detection to automatically identify which connectors are connected to host systems, substituting what would otherwise require manual tracking or complex mechanical switching mechanisms. This allows multiple connectors to be managed automatically through electrical signal detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The transmission control device performs self-detection of connection states through the channel-detecting device, which automatically monitors electrical connections without external intervention. The system self-manages the determination of connection states and automatically configures transmission channels based on detected connections, eliminating the need for manual configuration or complex external control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If connection state determination is based on electrical connection detection, then connection accuracy is improved, but the need for additional detection circuits and impedance management increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAccuracy of connection state detectionVSAvoidComplexity of detection circuits
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transmission control device serves multiple functions: it controls data transmission, detects connection states, and manages impedance levels. By integrating these functions into a single device, the patent avoids adding separate detection circuits that would increase complexity. The same control logic that manages transmission also performs detection, making the system multi-functional without requiring additional hardware components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the transmission control device with the channel-detecting device, merging connection detection functionality into the existing transmission control infrastructure. Rather than adding separate detection circuits, the detection capability is integrated into the control device that already manages data transmission, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining accurate connection state detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If different operation functions are provided for different host systems, then user functionality and customization are improved, but the complexity of managing multiple communication channels increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAbility to provide different operation functionsVSAvoidComplexity of channel management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic channel management where the transmission control device automatically adjusts which communication channels are active based on detected connection states. When a connector is detected as connected, the corresponding transmission channel is activated; when disconnected, it is deactivated. This dynamic adaptation allows different operation functions for different host systems without requiring complex static configuration for each possible scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The transmission control device is pre-configured with multiple communication channels corresponding to different connectors, but these channels remain inactive until needed. When a connection is detected, the corresponding channel is activated in advance of actual data transmission. This preliminary preparation allows quick switching between different host systems and operation functions without complex real-time configuration during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables the electronic device to accurately determine connection states and provide diverse operation functions for multiple host systems, enhancing user experience and functionality by managing connections and operations effectively.

Implementation Method 1

The channel-detecting device detects the impedance information between one or both of the first connection interface and the second connection interface and the at least one host system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImpedance detection: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS11284340B2Electronic devices with multi-connectors and methods thereof
Publication Date: 2022.03.22 SILICON MOTION INC
  • US11284340B2 patent drawing
  • US11284340B2 patent drawing
  • US11284340B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device and related control method are provided. The electronic device includes a first connection interface, configured to be electrically connected to a first host system through a first cable, and a second connection interface, configured to be electrically connected to a second host system through a second cable. The electronic device further includes a transmission control device having a first communication channel and a second communication channel, wherein the transmission control device provides operation functions for at least one of the first host system and the second host system according to a connection state. The electronic device further includes a data access device configured to receive data transmitted by the at least one host system, and a channel-detecting device, detecting the impedance information between one or both of the first connection interface and the second connection interface and the at least one host system.