Bi-Directional USB-C Extension with Optical Link and Auto Role Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing USB systems face limitations in transmission distance due to power and signal loss over electrical conductors, restricting bi-directional communication to a few meters, and require unidirectional active extension systems that lack universality.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional active USB power delivery system with converter circuitry and bi-directional voltage converters at USB Type-C connectors, enabling power and data transmission in both directions, using optical and electrical interfaces to extend communication over longer distances with reduced interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If passive USB cable is used for power and data transmission, then transmission distance is limited to a few meters, but system simplicity is maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical fiber medium to replace direct electrical conduction for data transmission. Optical converters at each end of the cable convert electrical signals to optical signals for transmission through the fiber, eliminating electrical resistance and signal degradation issues that limit copper cable length. This intermediary approach allows transmission distances to extend far beyond the few-meter limitation of passive USB cables.
2Length of moving object
If active extension system is used to extend transmission distance, then power and signal loss is reduced, but system complexity increases due to unidirectional architecture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements bidirectional active extension capabilities using USB Type-C connectors that can dynamically switch between host and device roles. The connector includes bidirectional voltage converters that can operate in both boosting and bucking modes, allowing power and data to flow in either direction. This universal design eliminates the need for separate unidirectional extension systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining extended transmission distance capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic role assignment where USB Type-C connectors can automatically switch between host and device roles based on connection requirements. The bidirectional voltage converters dynamically adjust their operation mode (boosting or bucking) depending on the direction of power flow needed. This dynamic adaptability allows a single system to handle both extension scenarios without requiring complex fixed architecture.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If optical interface is used for data transmission, then electrical interference is reduced, but conversion circuitry complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical converters as intermediary devices that perform electrical-to-optical and optical-to-electrical signal conversion. These converters are integrated into the USB Type-C connector architecture, providing galvanic isolation between the electrical domains at each end of the cable. This intermediary optical interface eliminates electrical interference, ground loops, and noise issues while the integration approach keeps the added complexity manageable within the connector housing.
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 high-speed, bi-directional power and data transmission over extended distances with reduced electrical interference, supporting flexible configuration and universal compatibility between devices.
Implementation Method 1
The first voltage converter is generally configured to receive a first voltage at the input and to output a second voltage at the output. The first voltage converter is generally configured to allow power to flow in two directions.
Implementation Method 2
using optical and electrical interfaces to extend communication over longer distances with reduced interference
Data Source
AI summary
A Universal Serial Bus (USB) power delivery system is provided that includes a first USB Type-C connector with a first converter circuitry and a second USB Type-C connector with a second converter circuitry. The first USB Type-C connector includes a first controller having a first electrical interface configured to electrically couple to a CC wire of the first USB Type-C connector, and to send/receive data via the first electrical interface and a first bi-directional voltage converter. The second converter circuitry includes a second controller having a second electrical interface configured to electrically couple to a CC wire of the second USB Type-C connector, and to send/receive data via the second electrical interface. A second bi-directional voltage converter includes an input and output, the second voltage converter receiving the second voltage at the input and outputting a third voltage at the output, thereby allowing power to flow in two directions.