USB-C Dongle Adapter Pin Switching for Extra Signal Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data communication methods for devices with non-standardized signal pins, such as USB-C to USB-A adapters, face complexity and inefficiency in connecting additional signal inputs or outputs, particularly for analog audio and digital data signals.
Innovation Solution
A dongle and adaptor system that utilizes unused USB-C pins for additional interface connections through a protruding key or surface contact to activate internal switches, converting analog signals to digital and combining them with existing USB-C signals without additional ICs, using a controller and memory for signal management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional signal inputs or outputs are connected through extra connectors on USB-A adaptor, then signal transmission capability is improved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The USB-C connector's unused pins are repurposed to carry additional signals (analog audio, digital data, control signals) beyond standard USB functionality. This allows a single connector interface to serve multiple functions - standard USB data transmission, analog audio input/output, digital data bus communication, and sensor connections - thereby improving signal transmission capability without adding physical connectors or increasing connection complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameter configuration of existing USB-C pins by reassigning their functions through software control. The controller dynamically configures pin assignments based on detected connector types, transforming standard USB pins into multi-functional signal carriers. This parameter reconfiguration enables additional signal paths without physical hardware modifications, resolving the contradiction between enhanced adaptability and maintained simplicity
2Adaptability or versatility
If unused USB-C pins are utilized for additional interfaces, then device functionality is improved, but signal connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-configuration through automatic connector type detection and dynamic pin assignment. When a connector is plugged in, the controller automatically detects the connector type (e.g., analog audio jack, digital data connector) and self-configures the USB-C pin assignments accordingly. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual signal routing configuration, allowing enhanced device functionality to be achieved without increasing signal connection complexity for the end user
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic pin assignment where the function of each USB-C pin is not fixed but can be changed in real-time based on the connected device type. The controller dynamically reconfigures the electrical connections between USB-C pins and internal components (ADC, digital data bus, sensors) according to the detected connector type. This dynamic adaptability enables multiple functionalities through a single static physical interface, improving device functionality while maintaining simple signal connections
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard USB-C connector is used without modifications, then compatibility is maintained, but additional signal connections are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the functional parameters (signal assignments) of the standard USB-C connector pins through software control rather than modifying the physical connector structure. The controller reconfigures which pins carry which signals based on the connected device type, transforming a standard 24-pin USB-C connector into a multi-functional interface that can accommodate analog audio, digital data, and sensor connections. This parameter reassignment approach enables additional signal connections while maintaining physical compatibility with standard USB-C ports and cables
Solution Approach 2:
The standard USB-C connector is designed to serve multiple functions beyond its original purpose. By repurposing previously unused pins, the same physical connector provides standard USB data transmission, analog audio input/output capabilities, digital data bus communication (I2C, I2S), and sensor connections. This multi-functionality is achieved without modifying the connector's physical structure, maintaining compatibility while dramatically expanding additional signal connection capabilities
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective data transmission by utilizing unused USB-C pins for additional interfaces, reducing design complexity and cost, while maintaining compatibility with standard USB-C connections.
Implementation Method 1
the controller includes an analog to digital converter for converting an analog signal of the third interface type into a digital signal
Data Source
AI summary
A system for connecting disparate communication interfaces. The system includes a dongle and an adaptor. The dongle has a first interface type of connector for connection to a first interface type of port. The adaptor provides a connection to a second interface type of port, and also includes a third interface type of port. A switch in the dongle allows connecting to the third interface type of interface port when connected to the adaptor, and connection to the first interface type of interface port when not connected to the adaptor.