Signal Connection Device Multiplexing Bi-directional Data Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices fail to efficiently manage data communication between a host device and multiple non-host devices, particularly in creating and managing diverse data paths and power distribution across multiple ports effectively.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves a device with an upstream port and multiple downstream ports, utilizing signal paths that include multiplexing, de-multiplexing circuits, and function circuits for data transfer, power regulation, and impedance matching, allowing for bi-directional and uni-directional data paths, as well as power distribution from an external source to downstream ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a device uses a single upstream port to communicate with multiple downstream ports, then connectivity and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiplexing and demultiplexing circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments data paths into separate bi-directional paths and uni-directional paths, allowing independent management and routing of different signal types through the multiplexing circuit, thereby reducing the complexity of managing all signals through a single complex path
Solution Approach 2:
The upstream port is designed to handle multiple functions by implementing both bi-directional data transfer and uni-directional data transfer capabilities, as well as power distribution, allowing a single port to serve multiple downstream ports with different communication needs
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device provides both bi-directional and uni-directional data paths, then adaptability to different communication standards is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional signal paths
Solution Approach 1:
The device dynamically configures signal paths by selectively activating bi-directional or uni-directional data paths based on the communication requirements of each downstream port, allowing flexible adaptation to different standards without permanently implementing all possible path configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The multiplexing circuit acts as an intermediary that manages and routes signals between the upstream port and multiple downstream ports, consolidating the control logic for handling both bi-directional and uni-directional paths in a single circuit rather than requiring separate dedicated circuits for each path type
3Adaptability or versatility
If the device implements power distribution from an external power source to downstream ports, then functionality and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases due to power regulation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the power distribution function with the existing data communication infrastructure by routing power signals through the same upstream and downstream port connections used for data transfer, eliminating the need for separate power supply circuits and reducing overall device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A device may include a first data path coupled between a first port and a data transfer section that enables data paths between the first data path and at least a second port and a third port. A second data path may be coupled between the first port and the second port that bypasses the data transfer section and is not coupled to the second or third ports.