Universal Connector Detecting Plug Electrical Characteristics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector systems struggle to support multiple types of plug accessories due to compatibility issues with different pin configurations and dimensions, leading to improper operation when using adapters that often short extra pins, limiting the functionality of accessory devices.
Innovation Solution
A universal connector system that detects the electrical characteristics of inserted plug connectors to configure the computing device and support various accessory devices, including mono-aural headsets, stereo headphones, and combination devices, by using a receptacle with signal lines and a measurement module to generate configuration data for the processor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adapters are used to connect different pin configurations, then connector compatibility is improved, but the extra pins are shorted causing improper accessory operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the connector system by implementing a detection mechanism that identifies the specific pin configuration (3-pin or 4-pin) and dynamically reconfigures the signal line assignments. This allows the system to adapt to different accessory types (headset, headphones, combination devices) without shorting extra pins, thereby maintaining both compatibility and reliable operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a universal connector system supports multiple plug types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system performs self-identification and self-configuration by automatically detecting the inserted plug type and autonomously reconfiguring its signal lines. This eliminates the need for manual user configuration or complex mechanical switching mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining support for multiple accessory types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures multiple signal line assignments and uses detection to select the appropriate configuration before the accessory begins operation. By preparing multiple signal line mappings in advance and selecting the correct one based on detected plug type, the system achieves multi-accessory support without requiring complex real-time switching hardware.
3Adaptability or versatility
If signal lines are reconfigured for different accessory types, then functionality is improved, but detection precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function as a separate, dedicated mechanism that independently identifies plug configuration before signal routing is established. By separating detection from signal processing, the system can use simple electrical characteristics (such as which pins are connected) to reliably distinguish between 3-pin and 4-pin plugs without requiring complex measurement systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention include a method and apparatus for intelligent handheld device accessory support. A method of one embodiment includes sensing the presence of an accessory plug in a jack of the handheld device, determining a type of accessory device attached to the accessory plug, including receiving electrical signals from pins of the plug and based on the determination, configuring the handheld device, including assigning particular signals to pins of the plug.