USB Type-C Connector Mid Plate for Accessory Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices struggle to clearly recognize accessories inserted into USB type-C connectors, leading to issues with foreign matter detection, connector damage, and overcurrent-induced heat generation.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a USB type-C connector that includes a contact substrate with a mid plate, electrically connected to a processor, which applies voltage to the mid plate to detect accessory insertion and determine the insertion state based on voltage levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If voltage is applied to the connector to detect accessory insertion, then accessory recognition capability is improved, but heat generation and overcurrent risk increase when foreign matter is inserted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a preliminary detection voltage (first voltage) to the mid plate before full power connection to pre-identify foreign matter. This preliminary action allows the system to detect potential overcurrent conditions before they cause harmful heat generation, by measuring voltage drop across the mid plate resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter from full operating voltage to a reduced detection voltage level when foreign matter is suspected. By adjusting the voltage parameter to a safer level during detection phase, the system maintains recognition capability while minimizing heat generation and overcurrent risk.
2Device complexity
If traditional pin-based detection is used, then device structure is simple, but foreign matter insertion cannot be reliably detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mid plate as an intermediary component between the power supply pin and the accessory connection. This mid plate with specific resistance value serves as a detection element that enables reliable foreign matter identification without requiring complex additional sensors or structures in the connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based detection with electrical resistance measurement. Instead of relying on mechanical switches or complex contact mechanisms, the system uses the electrical properties (voltage drop and current) of the mid plate to detect foreign matter, simplifying the mechanical structure while improving detection reliability.
3Device complexity
If no mid plate is used, then connector structure is simpler, but accessory insertion state cannot be accurately determined
Solution Approach 1:
The mid plate acts as an intermediary measurement point that provides accurate insertion state detection. By placing this resistive element in the power path, the system can measure voltage drop to determine insertion state with high precision without adding complex sensor arrays or multiple contact points.
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
Prevents malfunction and heat generation due to improper accessory mounting or foreign matter insertion by accurately recognizing accessories and informing users of improper mounting or foreign matter presence.
Implementation Method 1
the processor is configured to determine whether the accessory is inserted by using the mid plate, and determine the insertion state of the accessory based on a portion of the voltage applied to the mid plate by the power supply
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device and a method for recognizing accessories that are mounted into a connector of an electronic device are provided. The electronic device includes a housing that includes a first surface that faces in the first direction and a second surface that faces in the second direction, opposite the first direction, a display that is disposed between the first surface and the second surface and is exposed through the first surface, a power supply unit that applies a voltage, and at least one processor that is electrically connected to the display, wherein: the housing includes a universal serial bus (USB) type-C connector, the connector includes a contact substrate that is electrically connected to the processor to detect the insertion of an accessory, and the power supply unit and the processor are electrically connected to a mid plate that is formed in the contact substrate.