Reversible Connector Switching Circuit Without Control Logic

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing reversible connectors, such as USB Type-C, require additional wiring, electronic components, and complex control logic or software for orientation detection and switching, which can lead to mechanical damage and user inconvenience if not used correctly.

Innovation Solution

A device with switches and enable circuitry that automatically couples electrical wiring to either set of connector contacts based on the presence of a DC component in the signal, eliminating the need for correct orientation detection and reducing reliance on control logic or software, using DC filters and comparators to generate enable signals for switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional reversible connectors are used, then connector reversibility is achieved, but device complexity increases due to additional wiring, electronic components, and control logic

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector reversibilityVSAvoidwiring and control logic

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The enable circuitry automatically detects the presence of a DC component in the signal and generates enable signals to activate the appropriate switches without requiring external control logic or software intervention. The system serves itself by using the signal's own DC component to trigger the switching action, eliminating the need for complex orientation detection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical orientation detection systems with an electrical solution. Instead of using physical sensors or mechanical switches to detect connector orientation, the enable circuitry uses electrical signal analysis (detecting DC components) to automatically control the switching of electrical connections, thereby reducing mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Difficulty of detecting and measuring

If complex control logic is used for orientation detection, then connector orientation can be detected, but reliability decreases due to potential software failures and mechanical damage from incorrect insertion

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector orientation detectionVSAvoidconnection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Difficulty of detecting and measuringVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The enable circuitry uses the DC component already present in the signal to automatically generate enable signals for the switches. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for separate orientation detection logic and software, reducing the risk of detection failures and ensuring more reliable operation even during incorrect insertion attempts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The DC component of the signal acts as an intermediary that carries orientation information. Instead of requiring complex detection logic to interpret orientation, the DC component serves as a direct mediator that automatically triggers the appropriate switches based on the signal's inherent properties, simplifying the detection process and improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional electronic components are added for switching control, then reversible connection capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereversible connection capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The enable circuitry is designed to use the DC component of the existing signal to automatically control the switches, eliminating the need for separate control logic, processors, or complex software systems. This self-service approach reduces the number of additional electronic components required while maintaining reversible connection capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts only the essential function needed for reversible connection: using the DC component of the signal to trigger switch activation. By removing unnecessary control logic, processors, and software systems, the solution achieves reversibility with minimal additional components, thereby reducing manufacturing cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

Enables robust, user-friendly, and damage-free reversible connections without requiring correct connector orientation or complex control logic, ensuring safe and efficient electrical coupling regardless of connector orientation.

Implementation Method 1

the feature of the signal received on the at least one of the first and the second contacts is a presence of a Direct Current component in the signal received

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDC component detection: Filter (electronic)

Data Source

PatentUS10614020B2Switch for reversible interface

Publication Date: 2020.04.07 INTERDIGITAL MADISON PATENT HLDG

AI summary

An arrangement and method for accommodating a reversible connector in a device that does not require the use of a controller or firmware comprises detection circuitry for detection of an orientation of an external connector connected to the reversible connector. Two switches allow to connect electrical wiring of the device to either one of a set of pins of the reversible connector according to the detected orientation. The switches operate independently and each comprise separate detection circuitry.