USB Connector Disconnection Sensing via High-Impedance Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices using USB connectors often erroneously determine that a connection with an external device is released due to changes in voltage levels caused by external factors like temperature and humidity, leading to unstable connections.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device employs a disconnection sensing path with higher impedance than the high-speed interface to accurately determine connection status, reducing false signals from external environmental changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a high speed interface with low impedance is used for data transmission, then data transmission speed is improved, but the connection becomes sensitive to external environmental factors causing false disconnection signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection detection function into two separate paths: a high-speed data transmission path and a separate disconnection sensing path. This allows the data transmission to occur at high speed while the sensing path independently monitors connection status without being affected by the same environmental factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dedicated disconnection sensing path as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between the high-speed interface and the connection status determination. This sensing path provides accurate connection detection that is not directly influenced by the voltage fluctuations affecting the high-speed data path.
2Measurement precision
If voltage level changes are monitored to detect disconnection, then connection status can be determined, but external factors like temperature and humidity cause false disconnection detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a sensing path with specific impedance characteristics that differ from the high-speed data path. The disconnection sensing path is designed with localized properties (impedance matching, connection points) that make it less sensitive to environmental factors while maintaining accurate connection detection capability.
3Productivity
If impedance is reduced for high speed data transmission, then transmission efficiency is improved, but voltage level becomes easily changed by external environment generating false signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrical path into separate segments: one optimized for high-speed data transmission with appropriate low impedance, and another dedicated sensing path for reliable connection detection. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an electronic device including: a USB connector connected to a USB plug of an external device; a high-speed interface; a voltage source for supplying a voltage to the high-speed interface; a first circuit portion connected to a ground portion, and has a second impedance higher than a first impedance of the high-speed interface; and a processor. The processor is configured to monitor the external device by using the high-speed interface in a first interval of a first frame, form a disconnection sensing path by forming a connection between the first circuit portion and a second circuit portion of the external device, and use the disconnection sensing path to determine whether the connection between the USB connector and the USB plug has been disconnected. The second circuit portion may have a fourth impedance higher than a third impedance of an external high-speed interface. Various other embodiments are also possible.