Single Video Connector with Switching Circuits for Dual Input Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices like notebook personal computers and tablet computers face space constraints, making it impractical to provide separate connectors for both video signal output and input, as existing designs require two connectors with similar physical forms for these functions.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a single connector that functions both as an output and input port for video signals, utilizing a transmitter and receiver circuit configuration with switching circuits to dynamically switch between output and input modes, allowing the same HDMI or DisplayPort connector to handle both functions by selecting the appropriate circuits for hot-plug detection, capability information, and video signal transmission/reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate connectors are provided for video signal output and input, then both functions can be independently supported, but the connector mounting space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single connector to serve dual purposes as both video signal output and input interface. The connector is configured with switching circuits that can dynamically change its function based on the connected device type, allowing one physical connector to replace what traditionally required two separate connectors for complete video signal functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by introducing switching circuits that can dynamically change the connector's function from output to input mode based on detection of connected devices. The system automatically or manually switches between different circuit configurations (transmitter mode for output, receiver mode for input) to adapt the connector's behavior to current usage requirements.
2Area of stationary object
If a single connector is used for both output and input functions, then connector mounting space is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to switching circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the video signal output and input functions into a single connector by combining the transmitter and receiver circuits with switching circuits. Instead of having separate physical connectors, the system integrates multiple functions into one unified interface that can be dynamically configured, thereby reducing the number of physical components while managing internal complexity through consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching circuits act as intermediaries that manage the complexity of having multiple functions in one connector. These circuits automatically or manually select the appropriate signal transmission path (output or input mode) based on connected device detection, shielding the user from the underlying complexity while enabling versatile functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connector function is dynamically switched between output and input modes, then adaptability is improved, but the switching time and response delay increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the switching circuits and signal paths in ready-to-switch states. The system maintains multiple circuit configurations in standby mode, allowing rapid transition between output and input functions without requiring full re-initialization or complex reconfiguration sequences, thereby minimizing switching response time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms through hot-plug detection signals and capability information exchange to automatically determine the appropriate connector mode. When a device is connected, the system detects the device type and automatically switches the connector function accordingly, reducing manual intervention time and optimizing the switching response through automated feedback-driven control.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a housing including a connector configured to connect to an external device, a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter communicates with a sink device via the connector. The receiver communicates with a source device via the connector. If the connector is set as an output port for outputting a video signal, the transmitter is connected to the connector via first, second and third switching circuits. If the connector is set as an input port for inputting a video signal, the receiver is connected to the connector via the first, second and third switching circuits.