Universal Video Adapter with Automatic Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical transmission systems for video signals are cumbersome when trying to connect video signal cables to adapters, as they require distinguishing between analog and digital signals, often leading to incorrect connections due to the need for separate input terminals for each type of signal.
Innovation Solution
An adapter with a first signal determination unit to identify whether an inputted electrical signal is analog or digital, allowing both types of signals to be transmitted through a common input terminal, and using a modulator and EO converter to convert signals into optical form of the same wavelength, with a second adapter for demodulation and determination of signal type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate input terminals are provided for analog and digital video signals, then the adapter can receive both types of signals, but the device complexity increases and the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need to distinguish between signal types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate input terminals for analog and digital video signals into a single common input terminal. The adapter automatically detects the signal type (analog or digital) through signal level detection and other characteristics, eliminating the need for manual selection and simplifying the connection process while maintaining compatibility with both signal types.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter performs automatic signal type detection and selection without user intervention. The system self-determines whether the input signal is analog or digital by analyzing signal characteristics such as voltage level and waveform, then automatically configures the appropriate processing path, making the device self-servicing and eliminating manual operation complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate input terminals are provided for analog and digital video signals, then the adapter can receive both types of signals, but the device complexity increases due to multiple terminals and switching mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple input terminals into a single common input terminal that accepts both analog and digital video signals. This consolidation reduces the number of physical terminals and internal switching components, simplifying the device structure while maintaining the ability to handle multiple signal types through automatic detection and adaptive processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The common input terminal is designed with universal functionality to accept both analog and digital video signals. The adapter incorporates multi-functional circuitry that can process different signal types through a single interface, eliminating the need for dedicated terminals for each signal type and reducing overall device complexity.
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
Facilitates easy connection and transmission of both analog and digital video signals over long distances using a common input terminal, simplifying the setup process and increasing the versatility of input terminals, while maintaining efficient signal conversion and output.
Implementation Method 1
an EO converter configured to convert any of an electrical signal derived from an analog video signal and an electrical signal derived from a digital video signal into an optical signal of an identical wavelength
Implementation Method 2
a modulator configured to, if the first electrical signal is an analog video signal, modulate a carrier wave having a lower frequency than a transmission frequency of a digital video signal into a modulated electrical signal using the analog video signal
Implementation Method 3
The second adapter includes an OE converter configured to convert the optical signal into a second electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an optical transmission system in which one can easily set a video signal cable, and an adapter that can be used in this system. There is provided an adapter for use in an optical transmission system in which an analog video signal or a digital video signal is transmitted between a pair of adapters using light. The adapter includes a first signal determination unit configured to make a determination as to whether a first electrical signal inputted to a common input terminal is an analog video signal or a digital video signal.