Port Compatibility Detection Using Inductive Pulse Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Devices with multiple ports face challenges in determining a compatible port location, especially when ports are visually difficult to observe, leading to user difficulty in connecting connectors to the correct port.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of detection circuitry and controller circuitry that utilize internal inductance and capacitance to differentiate between types of connectors based on metal content, generating indications for compatible and incompatible ports, facilitating user interaction through visual or audio cues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different types of ports are included in a device to allow coupling to a wide range of devices, then the adaptability of the device is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring the correct port location increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection circuitry performs preliminary detection of connector type and port compatibility before the user attempts connection. The system proactively identifies which port is compatible with the connector being approached, and provides indication signals to guide the user to the correct port location, eliminating the need for user trial-and-error.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary indication system (visual, audio, or haptic signals) is introduced between the connector and the port. This intermediary provides information about compatibility, allowing the user to identify the correct port without direct observation or physical touch of the ports themselves.
2Ease of manufacture
If ports are placed in locations that are visually difficult to observe to improve device design flexibility, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary indication system that provides information about port compatibility without requiring the user to visually observe or physically touch the ports. The indication signals (visual, audio, or haptic) are provided at a distance from the ports, allowing users to identify the correct port location without needing to see or touch the ports themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of visually locating and manually identifying ports with an automated detection and indication system. The detection circuitry automatically detects connector type and determines compatibility, then provides signals to indicate the correct port location, substituting manual visual inspection with automated electronic detection and signaling.
3Ease of operation
If detection circuitry is added to identify compatible ports, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection circuitry is designed to be universally applicable across different connector types and port configurations. The same basic detection and indication mechanism can identify compatibility for various connector types (USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.), reducing the need for separate specialized circuits for each connector type and thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
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
Enhances user experience by simplifying the process of locating compatible ports, reducing the need for visual observation and physical touch, and accurately identifying connector types through magnetic field variations and voltage pulse responses.
Implementation Method 1
the controller circuitry generates a voltage pulse that induces a magnetic field, which produces variations in voltage in response to metal comprising a connector
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, apparatus, systems, and articles of manufacture are disclosed detection circuitry including an inductor and a capacitor; and controller circuitry coupled to the detection circuitry, the controller circuitry configured to: generate a voltage pulse; supply the voltage pulse to the detection circuitry; monitor a characteristic of a detection output of the detection circuitry in response to the voltage pulse; determine a variation in the detection output based on a comparison of the characteristic of the detection output to a threshold value; and determine a type of connector in proximity to the detection circuitry based on the variation.