Docking Station Host Switching via Priority Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current USB docking stations require users to manually switch between devices, such as laptops and mobile phones, to access peripherals and charging capabilities, which is inconvenient, especially when a device acting as a host needs to be unplugged to allow another device to take control.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for a docking station to determine which connected mobile device has higher priority to control peripherals by assessing their capabilities and user preferences, allowing seamless switching between devices without disconnecting them from the docking station, while maintaining charging capabilities for existing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mobile device is connected to the USB Type-B port of the docking station to control peripherals, then the device can utilise the increased capabilities of the docking station, but the user cannot connect another device (such as a laptop) to the same port without unplugging the current device
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station acts as an intermediary device between multiple mobile devices and peripherals. It includes a USB Type-B port for host device connection, USB Type-A ports for peripheral connections, and control logic to manage device switching. The intermediary manages the connection state and automatically switches host device control without requiring manual unplugging by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the role and connection state of devices based on detection signals. When a new device is detected on the USB Type-B port, the system dynamically switches the host device status from the current device to the new device. The connection state is not static but adapts automatically based on real-time device presence and capability detection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the host device is switched from one mobile device to another, then the new device can control the peripherals, but the existing device loses control and must be unplugged or reconfigured
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station performs preliminary detection and preparation before switching host devices. When a new device is connected to the USB Type-B port, the system detects the connection in advance, determines the device's host capability, and prepares the switching process before actually transferring control. This preliminary action prevents service interruption and reduces switching time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system ensures continuous useful action during device switching. The docking station maintains the connection state and peripheral power supply throughout the switching process. The new host device takes control seamlessly without interrupting the overall useful action of the docking station system, ensuring continuous operation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a device is connected to the docking station to charge, then the device can maintain power supply, but switching the host device connection may interrupt the charging process
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station segments the connection functions into separate ports and pathways. The USB Type-B port handles host device connection and control, while USB Type-A ports handle peripheral connections including charging. This segmentation allows the charging function to remain independent and uninterrupted during host device switching, as charging can continue through Type-A ports even when Type-B host connection changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station acts as an intermediary that manages power distribution independently from host device control. The power supply function is mediated through the docking station's internal power management, which can maintain charging to connected devices regardless of which device is the active host on the Type-B port. This mediation ensures charging continuity during host switching.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining which of a plurality of mobile devices connected to the docking station is permitted to control the peripherals involves the docking station determining whether a new mobile device is connected to an input port of the docking station, and, if so, whether the new mobile device is capable of controlling any of the peripherals connected to the docking station. If it is determined that the new mobile device is not capable of controlling any of the peripherals, the docking station determines that the new mobile device is to be connected as a peripheral. If it is determined that the new mobile device is capable of controlling one or more of the peripherals, the docking station determines whether an existing mobile device connected to the docking station has control of the peripherals as a host device, and, if so, determining which of the new mobile device or the existing mobile device has a higher priority to control the peripherals as the host device, and providing the determined host device access to control the peripherals.