Reconfigurable Interface Circuit Multiplexing USB and DC-OK Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supplies require multiple ports to facilitate both USB data communication and DC-OK signal transmission, which can be costly and inconvenient, especially when additional ports or custom connectors are needed.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable interface circuit that multiplexes USB data signals and DC-OK signals over a four-port interface using routing circuitry, allowing either USB communications or DC-OK communications to be enabled responsive to a signal, thereby reducing the number of physical ports required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ports are used to facilitate both USB data communication and DC-OK signal transmission, then communication functionality is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines USB data communication and DC-OK signal transmission through a single four-port interface. The first group of ports (USB Data+, USB Data-) and second group of ports (DC-OK, N/C) share common physical connectors, allowing both communication functions to be achieved through one integrated interface rather than separate ports.
Solution Approach 2:
The four-port interface is designed to perform multiple functions: it can facilitate USB data communication between the power supply and host system, transmit DC-OK signals to indicate power supply status, and support reconfiguration for different communication modes. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for dedicated separate ports for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ports are used to facilitate both USB data communication and DC-OK signal transmission, then communication functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging USB data communication and DC-OK signal transmission into a single four-port interface, the patent reduces the total number of physical ports and connectors required. This consolidation directly lowers manufacturing costs by reducing component count, assembly complexity, and PCB real estate requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal four-port interface design allows a single connector assembly to serve multiple communication purposes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional custom connectors or specialized components, thereby lowering overall manufacturing costs while maintaining full communication capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional ports or custom connectors are needed, then communication versatility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple communication functions into a single standardized four-port interface that uses common USB connectors. This eliminates the need for users to deal with multiple different connector types or custom connectors, simplifying operation while maintaining versatility through software-controlled reconfiguration of the routing circuitry.
Data Source
AI summary
An interface circuit that facilitates communicating information between a first system and a second system comprises a first group of ports, a second group of ports, and routing circuitry. The first group of ports is configured to be electrically coupled to the first system. The second group of ports is configured to be electrically coupled to the second system. The routing circuitry is electrically coupled to the first group of ports and the second group of ports. The routing circuitry is configured to facilitate communicating first information applied to a first port of the first group of ports to a pair of ports of the second group of ports. The routing circuitry is further configured to facilitate communicating second information between the pair of ports of the second group of ports and a pair of ports of the first group of ports when a particular signal is applied to a particular port of the second group of ports.