USB Connector Detection Circuit Using Piezoresistive Pressure Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face difficulties in determining whether data transmission failures are due to insufficient contact between USB connectors or a defective USB device, as current technologies lack effective methods to assess the connection integrity of USB connectors.
Innovation Solution
A connector detection circuit incorporating a pressure sensing module with piezoresistors and a switch unit, along with an LED indicator, is used to detect proper pressure application on USB pins, indicating sufficient connection by lighting up an LED when all pins are correctly contacted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If USB connector connection is used for data transmission, then data communication capability is improved, but it becomes difficult to determine whether data transmission failure is due to insufficient contact or defective device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pressure sensing module as an intermediary component between the USB connector pins and the detection circuit. This module senses the contact pressure of each pin through piezoresistors and transmits this information to the control unit, enabling indirect detection of connection integrity without disrupting the data transmission function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit receives pressure sensing results from the pressure sensing module and uses this information to determine connection integrity. The system provides real-time feedback about the connection state, allowing the device to distinguish between insufficient contact and device defects based on whether the required pressure threshold is met.
2Measurement precision
If pressure sensing module with piezoresistors is added to detect connection integrity, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pressure sensing function with the existing USB connector structure by integrating piezoresistors directly into the connector housing or pin supports. The pressure sensing module is combined with the control unit, which processes both pressure data and communication data, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to serve multiple functions: it manages data transmission communication and simultaneously processes pressure sensing results for connection integrity detection. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for a separate dedicated detection system, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
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
The circuit effectively determines the connection integrity of USB connectors, distinguishing between optimal and insufficient connections, thereby facilitating troubleshooting and ensuring reliable data transmission.
Implementation Method 1
A connector detection circuit incorporating a pressure sensing module with piezoresistors
Data Source
AI summary
A connector detection circuit is used for detecting whether a first connector of an electronic device is in sufficient connection with a second connector of a connection device. The connector detection circuit includes a pressure sensing module, a switch unit, and an indicator. The pressure sensing module is located under the pins of the first connector, to sense whether there is pressure applied on each pin of the first connector by a corresponding pin of the second connector, and to output sensed results. The switch unit is connected to the pressure sensing module to receive the sensed results, and is connected to the indicator to control the indicator to indicate whether the first connector and the second connector have a sufficient connection with each other according to the sensed results.