USB Type-C Interface Multi-Function Control Circuit Design

Solution Overview

Problem

Current USB Type-C interfaces do not support DisplayPort Alternate Mode, limiting their ability to transmit DisplayPort AV signals, and existing solutions are costly due to complex pin arrangements and high component counts.

Innovation Solution

A system using a USB Type-C interface with a multi-function control circuit and a USB Type-C receptacle that includes a USB controller and a graphics processing unit, capable of switching between different operational modes to support DisplayPort Alternate Mode, reducing costs by modifying internal connections and eliminating the need for high-speed switches.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a USB Type-C interface is used to transmit DisplayPort AV signals, then the interface versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for high-speed switches and complex pin arrangements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The USB Type-C interface is designed to support multiple functions including both standard USB data transmission and DisplayPort Alternate Mode. The interface can dynamically switch between USB mode and DisplayPort mode based on the connected device type, eliminating the need for separate dedicated interfaces and reducing overall system complexity despite the multi-functional capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The interface implementation is made dynamic through the ability to switch between different operational modes (USB mode and DisplayPort Alternate Mode). The system can adaptively change its function based on the connected device, using configuration channel pins to detect device type and switching internal connections accordingly, thereby managing complexity through flexible adaptability rather than fixed complex routing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If DisplayPort Alternate Mode is supported in USB Type-C interface, then the functionality is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases due to high component counts and complex pin arrangements

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The USB Type-C interface is designed to support multiple functions including both standard USB data transmission and DisplayPort Alternate Mode. The interface can dynamically switch between USB mode and DisplayPort mode based on the connected device type, eliminating the need for separate dedicated interfaces and reducing overall system complexity despite the multi-functional capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the USB controller and graphics processing unit into a single integrated circuit. This consolidation combines the functions that would otherwise require separate components and complex interconnections, thereby reducing the total component count and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining both USB and DisplayPort functionalities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If DisplayPort Alternate Mode is implemented, then the signal transmission capability is improved, but the board area increases due to complex circuit arrangements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal transmission capabilityVSAvoidboard area

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the USB controller and graphics processing unit into a single integrated circuit. This consolidation combines the functions that would otherwise require separate components and complex interconnections, thereby reducing the total component count and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining both USB and DisplayPort functionalities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The interface implementation is made dynamic through the ability to switch between different operational modes (USB mode and DisplayPort Alternate Mode). The system can adaptively change its function based on the connected device, using configuration channel pins to detect device type and switching internal connections accordingly, thereby managing complexity through flexible adaptability rather than fixed complex routing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3032426B1System and circuit using USB type-c interface

Publication Date: 2018.07.11 MEDIATEK INC

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AI summary

A system using a USB Type-C interface is provided. This system not only transmits the normal USB signal but also supports a DisplayPort Alternate Mode. Moreover, due to the novel pin arrangement of the multi-function control circuit, the cost of the overall system is reduced, and the area of the printed circuit board is effectively reduced.