Dynamic Role Swapping in Dual-Role Devices for Task Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing dual-role devices (DRDs) assume default roles based on plug types, leading to asymmetrical capabilities, where a more capable device may not be utilized as the host, limiting flexibility in task processing between devices.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that allow dual-role devices to dynamically determine and swap roles based on task analysis and capabilities, enabling the more capable device to act as the host for specific tasks or jobs, and revert to default roles upon completion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If dual-role devices assume default roles based on plug types, then device connection is simplified and standardized, but system flexibility and optimal task processing capability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice connectionVSAvoidsystem flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic role assignment where devices can switch between host and peripheral roles based on task requirements. The system analyzes task types and device capabilities in real-time, allowing the more capable device to assume host control for specific tasks while maintaining the simplified plug-based connection framework. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by preserving connection simplicity while enabling flexible role assignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of dual-role devices by allowing role assignment to be modified based on task characteristics and device capabilities. Instead of fixed role assignment based solely on plug type, the system introduces capability-based parameter adjustment, enabling devices to transition between host and peripheral states dynamically during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If dual-role devices assume default roles based on plug types, then device connection is simplified and standardized, but the more capable device may not be utilized as the host, limiting task processing efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice connectionVSAvoidtask processing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the host device analyzes task types and evaluates the capabilities of connected dual-role devices. Based on this feedback analysis, the system determines whether to maintain default role assignment or switch roles to optimize task processing. This feedback loop ensures that connection simplicity is preserved while enabling efficient task execution by assigning host control to the more capable device when appropriate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Before task execution begins, the system performs preliminary analysis of task requirements and device capabilities. This preliminary action allows the system to pre-determine optimal role assignment, ensuring that the more capable device is positioned as host before the task commences, thereby maximizing productivity without complicating the connection process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If the host device determines which device is better suited to act as host, then optimal task processing is achieved, but device complexity and control logic increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask processing efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol logic
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the role-determination process into distinct functional modules: task type analysis, capability evaluation, and role assignment decision-making. By dividing the complex determination process into separate manageable components, the system achieves intelligent role assignment without overwhelming complexity in any single device component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary role where the host device acts as a mediator that coordinates between the connected devices. The host analyzes task requirements and device capabilities, then facilitates optimal role assignment. This intermediary approach centralizes the control logic in a manageable way while enabling intelligent decision-making about role assignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8595725B2Method and system for processing jobs with two dual-role devices
Publication Date: 2013.11.26 NXP BV
  • US8595725B2 patent drawing
  • US8595725B2 patent drawing
  • US8595725B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A collaboration request may be sent to a host or a peripheral when a job is to be processed. The job may include one or more tasks. The host determines which device is better suited to act as host by analyzing the type of task or job to be executed and the capabilities of the host and peripheral. If the peripheral is better suited to act as host, the host and peripheral swap roles and control of a task or job is transferred to the peripheral. The host and peripheral may return to their default roles once the task or job is complete.