Optical HDMI Interconnect for Long-Distance Signal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional copper cables used for transmitting HD signals over long distances suffer from signal loss, resulting in artifacts like pixelation and loss of picture, which can be mitigated by costly and bulky shielding or active electronic modules that introduce signal errors.
Innovation Solution
An optical data interconnect system that converts HDMI standard TMDS or FRL electrical signals to optical signals using an optical conversion device connected to source ground to reduce noise, and then converts them back to electrical signals using an optical receiver with a power module to amplify the signals, eliminating the need for costly copper cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If copper cables are used for long-distance HD signal transmission, then signal transmission is achieved, but signal loss occurs resulting in artifacts like pixelation and loss of picture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical signal transmission mechanism (copper cables) with an optical signal transmission mechanism (optical fibers). The HDMI electrical signals are converted to optical signals for transmission through optical fibers, and then converted back to electrical signals at the receiving end. This substitution eliminates the impedance and signal loss problems inherent in copper cable transmission over long distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical signals as an intermediary medium for signal transmission. Instead of directly transmitting electrical signals through copper cables over long distances, the system uses optical fibers as an intermediary transmission medium that does not suffer from the same impedance and signal loss issues, thereby maintaining signal quality over extended distances.
2Reliability
If passive connection designs with large or well shielded copper cables are used, then signal loss is reduced, but the solution becomes costly and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the heavy, bulky copper cable system with a lightweight optical fiber system. Optical fibers are significantly thinner and lighter than shielded copper cables while providing superior signal transmission characteristics, thereby eliminating the need for bulky shielding and reducing overall cable weight and size.
3Reliability
If active electronic modules such as signal boosters are used, then signal loss is reduced, but signal errors are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for active electronic signal boosting modules with a passive optical transmission system. Optical fibers transmit signals over long distances without requiring intermediate amplification or boosting, thereby eliminating the complexity and potential error introduction associated with active electronic modules while maintaining signal quality.
4Length of moving object
If optical conversion devices are used to convert electrical signals to optical signals, then signal loss is reduced, but noise reduction requires connection to source ground
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a grounding system where the optical conversion devices automatically establish their own reference potential by connecting to the source ground. This self-grounding mechanism ensures noise reduction and signal stability without requiring external grounding infrastructure, thereby simplifying the overall system while enabling long-distance transmission.
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
The optical interconnect system effectively reduces signal loss and artifacts, providing reliable transmission of high-definition signals over long distances without introducing signal errors, while being more flexible and cost-effective than traditional copper cable solutions.
Implementation Method 1
A first signal converter is connected to the first HDMI compatible electrical connector and includes electronics for conversion of differential (including but not limited to HDMI standard TMDS or FRL) electrical signals to optical signals
Implementation Method 2
A second signal converter is connected to the at least one optical fiber and includes electronics for conversion of optical signals to HDMI standard TMDS or FRL electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
A system for optical data interconnect of a source and a sink includes a first HDMI compatible electrical connector able to receive electrical signals from the source. A first signal converter is connected to the first HDMI compatible electrical connector and includes electronics for conversion of differential (including but not limited to TMDS and FRL) electrical signals to optical signals, with the electronics including an optical conversion device. At least one optical fiber is connected to the first signal converter. A second signal converter is connected to the at least one optical fiber and includes electronics for conversion of optical signals to HDMI standard TMDS or FRL electrical signals. A power module for the second signal converter includes a power tap connected to HDMI standard TMDS or FRL circuitry and a voltage regulator connected to the power tap to provide power to an electrical signal amplifier. A second HDMI compatible electrical connector is connected to the second signal converter and able to send signals to the sink.