Standard USB Connector Pin Reassignment for HD Video
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smaller electronic devices face limitations in high-definition data transmission due to limited physical connections, such as micro-USB, mini-USB, or standard USB connectors, which complicate the transfer of high-definition multimedia data.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize standard connectors to detect operation modes and switch between transmission modes, allowing for the transmission of alternative content like high-definition video and audio over existing connections by repurposing pins and using modal approaches to maintain compliance with standard protocols while supporting additional signaling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If standard USB connectors (micro-USB, mini-USB, standard USB) are used in smaller electronic devices, then the device size is reduced and portability is improved, but the capability to transmit high-definition multimedia data is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes standard USB connectors multi-functional by enabling them to transmit both traditional USB data and high-definition multimedia data through protocol detection and pin assignment switching. The connector serves dual purposes: standard USB communication and HD multimedia transmission, eliminating the need for separate specialized connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of standard USB connectors by detecting the communication protocol and dynamically switching pin assignments and transmission modes. This allows the same physical connector to operate in different functional states, transforming it from a single-purpose to a versatile interface capable of HD data transmission.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized connectors are provided for different data transmission protocols, then support for various protocols is improved, but device complexity and connection variety increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector design where a single standard USB connector supports multiple protocols (USB and HD multimedia protocols) through intelligent protocol detection and dynamic pin assignment switching. This eliminates the need for multiple specialized connectors while maintaining broad protocol compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability by detecting the communication protocol in real-time and automatically switching pin assignments and transmission modes. This dynamic behavior allows the connector to adapt its configuration based on the connected device, providing versatility without requiring multiple static connector types.
3Reliability
If standard USB pin assignments are used, then compatibility with standard protocols is maintained, but transmission of alternative content like high-definition video and audio is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic pin assignment switching based on protocol detection. When HD multimedia protocol is detected, the system dynamically reassigns USB pins to carry HD data signals while maintaining USB protocol compliance when standard USB mode is detected. This dynamic reconfiguration enables alternative content transmission without sacrificing protocol reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical and functional parameters of the USB connector pins based on the detected protocol. By switching pin assignments and transmission modes, the system transforms the connector from a standard USB interface to an HD-capable interface, enabling alternative content transmission while maintaining compatibility through parameter adaptation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Transmission of alternative content over standard device connectors. An embodiment of a method includes connecting a first device to a second device utilizing a standard connector, the connector including multiple pins, and detecting whether the second device is operating in a standard mode or an alternative mode. If the second device is operating in the alternative mode, then switching one or more pins of the standard connector for the alternative mode and transmitting or receiving signals for the alternative mode via the plurality of pins of the standard connector.