Reconfigurable Bidirectional Front-End Interface for Multi-Standard SoC
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current computing device connectors lack the ability to dynamically reconfigure their signal transmission and reception capabilities to accommodate multiple standards like USB 3.1 and Display Port simultaneously, leading to inefficiencies and increased device complexity.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable bidirectional front-end interface is implemented using a double lane USB SuperSpeed physical layer (USB-SS PHY) that can dynamically switch between USB 3.1 and Display Port modes, allowing four differential lines to be bidirectional for both transmission and reception, and utilizing phase-locked loops to support different frequencies for each mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a connector is designed to support multiple signal standards (USB 3.1, Display Port, etc.), then the adaptability and versatility of the device is improved, but the device complexity increases due to requiring separate transmission and reception circuits for each standard
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal front-end interface that can operate in multiple modes (USB 3.1 mode, Display Port mode, and alternative modes) using the same physical infrastructure. The bidirectional lines can be dynamically reconfigured to serve different protocols, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits for each standard and achieving multi-functionality from a single interface design.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs dynamic reconfiguration capability where the direction of signal transmission can be changed based on the operational mode. The front-end interface can switch between transmitting and receiving roles on the same lines, allowing adaptive behavior depending on whether USB 3.1 or Display Port protocol is active, thereby reducing static circuit complexity.
2Reliability
If separate unidirectional lines are dedicated for transmitting and receiving signals in USB 3.1 mode, then the reliability of signal transmission is improved, but the productivity and operational efficiency deteriorate due to inability to reuse lines for bidirectional communication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic line reconfiguration where the same physical lines can switch between transmitting and receiving functions based on the operational mode. In USB 3.1 mode, lines are configured as bidirectional, allowing the same lines to handle both transmission and reception, improving productivity while maintaining reliability through proper mode-specific configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (transmission direction, frequency, protocol) based on the detected mode. The front-end interface adjusts its behavior parameters dynamically - using bidirectional communication in USB mode and unidirectional in Display Port mode - optimizing both reliability and productivity for each specific protocol.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
An apparatus and methods are disclosed for a bidirectional front-end circuit included within a system on chip (SoC). The bidirectional front-end circuit includes a differential bidirectional terminal for receiving and transmitting signals. The bidirectional front-end circuit is configured to provide a first communication path between a first controller and a connector through the differential bidirectional terminal when operating in a first mode. And, the bidirectional front-end circuit is reconfigured to provide a second communication path between a second controller and the connector through the differential bidirectional terminal when operating in a second mode.