Multiplexing Interface Voltage Detection for Mobile Terminal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mobile communications terminals require multiple interfaces (HDMI, USB, power) that increase size and cost, and complicate user operations due to the need for different connection cables for various functions.

Innovation Solution

A mobile communications terminal with a USB OTG controller, MHL adapter chip, and changeover switch chip connected to a multiplexing interface, which detects voltage to switch between USB OTG and MHL connections, allowing multiple functions to be implemented using a single interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple functional interfaces (HDMI, USB, power) are provided on the mobile communications terminal, then various functions can be implemented, but the size of the terminal increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidterminal size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functional interfaces (HDMI, USB, power) into a single physical interface by using a changeover switch chip that can dynamically connect different functional modules to the same interface port, thereby reducing terminal size while maintaining functional versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a universal interface design where a single multiplexing interface can serve multiple functions (video output, data transmission, power charging) by dynamically switching its connected module, eliminating the need for separate dedicated interfaces for each function

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple functional interfaces (HDMI, USB, power) are provided on the mobile communications terminal, then various functions can be implemented, but the cost of the terminal increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent reduces manufacturing cost by merging multiple interface functions into a single physical interface, which reduces the total number of interface components, cables, and associated hardware needed, thereby lowering bill of materials cost and assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The universal multiplexing interface design reduces cost by eliminating redundant interface hardware for each function, using a single switchable interface instead of multiple dedicated interfaces, which reduces component count and manufacturing complexity

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple functional interfaces (HDMI, USB, power) are provided on the mobile communications terminal, then various functions can be implemented, but user operations become complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent simplifies user operations by merging all interface functions into a single port, so users only need to connect one type of cable to access video output, data transmission, and power charging functions, eliminating the confusion of selecting among multiple different cables and interfaces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Area of stationary object

If multiple functional interfaces are integrated, then the terminal size is reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveterminal sizeVSAvoidinterface control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The changeover switch chip automatically detects which function is required and switches the connection accordingly, eliminating the need for manual user configuration or complex control software, thereby reducing operational complexity despite the integrated design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

This solution reduces the volume and cost of interfaces, simplifies user operations, and enhances user experience by enabling multiple functions through a single multiplexing interface.

Implementation Method 1

the MHL adapter chip detects a first voltage from the multiplexing interface and compares the first voltage with a preset voltage value

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage detection: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentEP2824581B1Device, method and mobile communication terminal using a common interface
Publication Date: 2018.05.02 HUAWEI DEVICE CO LTD
  • EP2824581B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2824581B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2824581B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The present invention discloses an interface sharing apparatus and method, and a mobile communications terminal. The apparatus includes a control unit, a video processing unit, a switch unit, a detection control unit and a multiplexing interface, where the detection control unit is configured to detect a first voltage from the multiplexing interface, and compare the first voltage with a preset voltage value; if the first voltage is greater than zero and less than or equal to the preset voltage value, the detection control unit controls the switch unit, so that the video processing unit is connected to the multiplexing interface by using the switch unit; and if the first voltage is equal to zero or greater than the preset voltage value, the detection control unit controls the switch unit, so that the control unit is connected to the multiplexing interface by using the switch unit. In the foregoing manner, the present invention can implement multiple functions by using one multiplexing interface, thereby reducing the volume of an interface, reducing costs, facilitating operations and use of a user, and improving user experience.