Multi-Interface Data Communication Connector with Configurable Receivers

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional data communication connectors are limited to a single interface standard, restricting their functionality and compatibility with different physical layer communication standards, such as RS-485 and CAN, which hinders flexible connectivity across various interfaces.

Innovation Solution

A multi-interface data communication connector apparatus and method that includes receivers and drivers compliant with multiple physical layer standards, such as CAN and ANSI-TIA/EIA, allowing for overlapping operating voltage ranges and configuration via a Connection Controller to enable data transfer across multiple standards, including full-duplex and half-duplex communication modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a connector is designed for a single interface standard, then it maintains simplicity and reliability for that specific standard, but it lacks adaptability to support multiple physical layer communication standards

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface compatibilityVSAvoidconnector structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed to support multiple interface standards (CAN, RS-485, TIA/EIA) within a single physical device. The connector housing and contact structure remain universal, while the internal electronics can be configured to comply with different electrical characteristics and communication protocols, allowing one connector to perform multiple functions across different standards

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple receivers and drivers for different standards are integrated into a single connector, then adaptability across multiple standards is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-standard supportVSAvoidcircuit configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple receivers and drivers for different interface standards are integrated into a single connector assembly. The CAN receiver/driver, RS-485 receiver/driver, and TIA/EIA receiver/driver are combined within the same physical connector housing, sharing common structural elements and contact infrastructure while maintaining distinct electrical pathways for each standard

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If overlapping operating voltage ranges are used across multiple standards, then compatibility between different standards is improved, but precision in voltage level differentiation becomes more challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevoltage compatibilityVSAvoidvoltage level discrimination

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Each receiver and driver circuit is designed with specific electrical characteristics tailored to its intended standard, even though they share overlapping voltage ranges. The CAN circuitry is optimized for CAN voltage levels, RS-485 for its differential voltage requirements, and TIA/EIA for its specific electrical characteristics, allowing precise differentiation through circuit design rather than vastly different voltage ranges

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11277297B2Method and apparatus for multiple physical layer interfaces within a single connector

Publication Date: 2022.03.15 HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

Apparatuses and methods for configuration and operation of data communication connectors supporting connectivity to various physical interfaces are provided.