Triple-Mode Universal Connector for USB HDMI DisplayPort Interoperability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions do not support interoperability between data and multimedia interfaces such as USB, DisplayPort, and HDMI, making it difficult to connect handheld devices with USB connectors to multimedia devices with HDMI or DisplayPort connectors, requiring additional adapters and limiting flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A triple-mode connectivity apparatus with a universal connector that enables interoperability between multimedia display interfaces and data interfaces, including a physical layer interface for signal processing and a detector to determine the interface type of the connected device, allowing for seamless connectivity between USB, HDMI, and DisplayPort devices using a data-multimedia cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate connectors (USB, HDMI, DisplayPort) are used for data and multimedia interfaces, then each interface can be optimized for its specific function, but device complexity increases and interoperability is limited requiring additional adapters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector that can identify and support multiple interface types (USB, HDMI, DisplayPort) through a single physical connector. The connector includes pins that can be configured to match different interface standards, allowing one connector to replace multiple specialized connectors while maintaining their respective functions through software-based interface type detection and adaptation
2Reliability
If multiple specialized connectors are used, then each interface type can be optimized, but adaptability between different device types decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal connector detects the connected device's interface type through pin configuration and electrical characteristics, then dynamically adapts its internal routing and signal processing to match the detected interface standard. This allows a single connector to work with USB devices, HDMI devices, and DisplayPort devices without requiring device-specific hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The universal connector acts as an intermediary between the device and various interface standards. It includes a detection mechanism that identifies the connected device type and a translation layer that adapts signals between different interface protocols, enabling seamless interoperability without requiring the device itself to support multiple specialized connectors
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal connector is implemented to support multiple interfaces, then adaptability and interoperability improve, but determining the correct interface type becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The universal connector performs preliminary detection of the interface type immediately upon connection through electrical characteristics of the pins (such as resistance, voltage levels, or signal presence). This early detection allows the system to configure the appropriate interface protocol before data transmission begins, simplifying the detection process by performing it as a preliminary step rather than during ongoing operation
Data Source
AI summary
A triple-mode connectivity apparatus for enabling interoperability between a multimedia display interface and a data interface. The apparatus comprises a universal connector installed in a first device and structured to enable connectivity between the multimedia display interface and the data interface of a second device, the first device is connected to the second device using a cable having a first connector compliant with the universal connector and a second connecter compliant with the data interface of the second device; a physical layer interface for processing signals compliant with the multimedia display interface and the data interface; and a detector for detecting an interface type of the second device and setting the apparatus to process signals according to the determined interface type.