Human Interface Device Control via I2C Without OS Drivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-media input devices require operating system (OS) dependent drivers to function, limiting their use and functionality across different OS platforms and making them vulnerable to manipulation by malicious actors.
Innovation Solution
A system-integrated approach that utilizes an out-of-band communication path via an inter-integrated circuit (I2C) bus to receive requests from human interface devices, allowing direct control of peripheral devices without OS driver involvement, using a micro-control unit to manage state changes of peripherals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an operating system dependent driver is used to receive multi-media functions, then the input device can control peripheral features, but the system becomes vulnerable to manipulation and loses compatibility across different OS platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a microcontrol unit (MCU) as an intermediary component that receives requests from the host controller through an out-of-band communication path (I2C bus). This intermediary enables the input device to control peripheral features without requiring OS-dependent drivers, thereby improving security while maintaining OS compatibility. The MCU acts as a mediator that translates host requests into direct control signals for peripheral devices.
2Reliability
If an out-of-band communication path via I2C bus is used, then security and OS independence are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microcontrol unit (MCU) is configured to autonomously process requests received from the host controller and directly control peripheral devices without requiring intervention from the operating system or central processing unit. This self-service capability allows the input device to independently manage peripheral features through the out-of-band communication path, improving security while minimizing the increase in system complexity by eliminating the need for additional software layers.
3Reliability
If a micro-control unit is used to send direct signals to peripheral devices, then driver involvement is eliminated and security is improved, but the communication path complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication path into two distinct channels: an in-band path for standard data communication and an out-of-band path via I2C bus for control signals. This segmentation allows the microcontrol unit to send direct signals to peripheral devices through a dedicated communication channel, eliminating the need for OS driver involvement while improving security. The separation of control and data paths reduces interference and simplifies the overall system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A system-integrated solution for input/output device extended-control without operating system driver involvement is provided. In examples, systems and methods include receiving an out-of-band request from a human interface device, receiving an in-band request from the human interface device, and sending a signal directly to a peripheral device, via a micro-control unit, to honor the out-of-band request. In examples, the out-of-band request is received via an inter-integrated circuit.