Universal Connector Detecting Orientation via Electrical Characteristics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic connectors require multiple interfaces for different communication types, leading to larger sizes and increased complexity, with users often struggling to correctly orient and connect them, potentially causing damage.
Innovation Solution
A system that measures electrical characteristics to determine the orientation and select the appropriate communication interface, allowing a single connector to facilitate multiple interfaces and route signals accordingly, using detectors and switches to ensure correct alignment and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dedicated connectors are used for different communication interfaces, then communication reliability is improved, but device size and connector complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector design where a single physical connector supports multiple communication interfaces (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, Microdrive) by detecting the inserted device type and dynamically routing signals through different contact groups within the same connector housing, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated connectors
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by detecting which contacts are connected and automatically configuring the communication protocol and signal routing accordingly, allowing the same physical connector to adapt to different interface requirements through software-based parameter adjustment rather than hardware changes
2Reliability
If connectors are designed with keying to prevent incorrect orientation, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates as users must manually orient connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system performs self-identification and self-configuration by automatically detecting the inserted device orientation and type through contact resistance measurements, then autonomously routing signals through the appropriate contacts without requiring user intervention to orient or configure the connection
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from contact detection circuits to determine connector orientation and device type, then adjusts signal routing and communication protocols accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to the physical connection state
3Quantity of substance
If multiple interface signals are integrated into a single connector, then connector quantity is reduced, but device complexity increases due to interface selection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the interface selection and routing logic from the physical connector structure and implements it as independent detection and control circuits within the device, allowing the connector itself to remain simple while the intelligence is separated into dedicated detection and routing subsystems
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
This solution enables smaller, more efficient connectors that can communicate with various devices using multiple interfaces, simplifying the connection process and reducing the risk of damage while saving space and user frustration.
Implementation Method 1
a detector operable to measure one or more electrical characteristic of the connection between the two devices
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for determining the configuration of a connection between two devices by measuring an electrical characteristic are provided. Using the measured electrical characteristic, a device is able to select an appropriate communication interface, such as serial, Universal Serial Bus (USB), FireWire, parallel, PS/2, etc., and configure itself appropriately. Systems and methods which determine the physical orientation of a connector with respect to another connector may also be provided alone or in combination with such systems and methods for selecting communication interfaces. The physical orientation of a connector can be determined by measuring an electrical characteristic and a device can then configure itself appropriately. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, device designs can decrease in size and cost as well as simplify operation for the end-user.