Signal Connecting Module for TRS Connector Pin Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current audio and video devices with TRS connectors from different manufacturers have varying pin positions, leading to compatibility issues where products from one company cannot work with those from another, resulting in unnecessary additional costs for customers to purchase exclusive products.
Innovation Solution
A signal connecting module with a connecting port, controlling module, and detecting module that outputs a detecting signal to determine the position of pins in a connector, allowing the electronic device to automatically identify and connect to connectors with different specifications by switching the signal path accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different manufacturers use different pin position specifications for TRS connectors, then each manufacturer can optimize their own products, but compatibility between products from different manufacturers is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting the pin position specification of the connector before establishing normal audio signal transmission. The controlling module outputs detecting signals through the first pin to identify which pin (second or third) is connected to the ground pin, and switches the signal path in advance according to the detected specification, ensuring compatibility before actual use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the signal path switching adaptable and changeable. The switch module dynamically adjusts the connection between pins based on the detected connector specification. When a first type connector is detected, the second pin connects to the ground end and third pin to the microphone signal end; when a second type connector is detected, the connections are reversed, allowing the device to adapt to different manufacturer specifications.
2Device complexity
If a fixed pin position specification is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different manufacturer standards is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the signal connecting module to support multiple connector specifications through a single interface. The switch module can configure different pin connections based on detected specifications, allowing one device to universally work with both first type and second type TRS connectors from different manufacturers without requiring separate hardware for each standard.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the detecting module to identify the connector specification and feed this information back to the controlling module, which then adjusts the switch module accordingly. The detecting signal traverses through the connector pins, and the detecting module receives feedback on which pin connects to ground, enabling automatic adaptation to the connected connector's specification.
3Adaptability or versatility
If automatic connector identification is implemented, then compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional detecting and controlling modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating the detecting module, controlling module, and switch module into a unified signal connecting module that works together seamlessly. The detecting module shares the existing connecting port structure, the controlling module coordinates both detection and switching functions, and the switch module uses the same physical pins for both detection and signal transmission, reducing overall system complexity despite added functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the connector identification and adaptation process to occur automatically without user intervention. The detecting module autonomously identifies the connector specification by sending detecting signals and analyzing the results, the controlling module automatically determines the appropriate configuration, and the switch module self-adjusts the pin connections, eliminating the need for manual setup or user knowledge of connector specifications.
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 electronic devices to detect and connect to various TRS connectors, ensuring compatibility and eliminating the need for customers to purchase exclusive products, thereby reducing unnecessary costs and enhancing interoperability.
Implementation Method 1
the controlling module outputs a detecting signal via the first pin to an earphone pin of the connector
Implementation Method 2
the detecting module detects a current signal received by the second pin or the third pin to determine that the ground pin of the connector is electrically connected to the second pin or the third pin
Data Source
AI summary
A signal connecting module, an electronic device, and a connector identification method thereof are disclosed. The signal connecting module is applied to the electronic device to electrically connect to the connector. The signal connecting module includes a connecting port, a controlling module, and a detecting module. The controlling module electrically connects to a first pin of the connecting port. When the connector connects to the connecting port, the controlling module outputs a detecting signal via the first pin to an earphone pin of the connector. The detecting module electrically connects to a second pin and a third pin of the connecting port; wherein after the controlling module outputs the detecting signal, the detecting module detects a current signal received by the second pin or the third pin to determine that the second pin or the third pin electrically connects to a ground pin of the connector.