KVM Switch Embedded Bluetooth Module Input Signal Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing KVM switches do not effectively allow non-Bluetooth enabled user consoles to control Bluetooth master machines without additional hardware or complex setup, limiting versatility in device connectivity and convenience.

Innovation Solution

A KVM switch with an embedded Bluetooth module that converts input device data from non-Bluetooth consoles into Bluetooth compliant signals, enabling seamless control of both non-Bluetooth and Bluetooth enabled devices, including tablets, smartphones, and computers, by acting as a bridge for input and video signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional KVM switch is used without Bluetooth module, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to control Bluetooth master machines is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to control Bluetooth master machinesVSAvoidcomplexity of KVM switch structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a Bluetooth module with a conventional KVM switch to create an integrated device that can control both traditional computers and Bluetooth master machines. The Bluetooth module is merged with the KVM switch's control circuitry, allowing a single device to handle multiple types of connected devices without requiring separate hardware for each device type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The enhanced KVM switch is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control conventional computers through traditional ports and simultaneously control Bluetooth master machines through the integrated Bluetooth module. This multi-functionality allows one device to serve multiple purposes and connect to various types of devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional Bluetooth adapters are used to enable non-Bluetooth consoles to control Bluetooth devices, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity and number of components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with Bluetooth devicesVSAvoidnumber of hardware components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of requiring separate Bluetooth adapters and KVM switches, the patent merges these functions into a single integrated device. The Bluetooth module is combined with the KVM switch circuitry, eliminating the need for multiple separate components and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate devices are used to achieve Bluetooth control functionality, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex setup

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice connectivity capabilityVSAvoidconvenience of setup and switching
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the Bluetooth module directly into the KVM switch, creating a unified device that requires only a single setup process. Users can switch between controlling conventional computers and Bluetooth master machines without needing to configure multiple separate devices or establish multiple connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The enhanced KVM switch provides universal control capability through a single device interface. The integrated system allows users to control different types of devices (conventional computers and Bluetooth master machines) using the same console and switching mechanism, simplifying operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8671235B2KVM switch with embedded bluetooth module
Publication Date: 2014.03.11 ATEN INTERNATIONAL CO LTD
  • US8671235B2 patent drawing
  • US8671235B2 patent drawing
  • US8671235B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A switch device that allows a user to use the same non-Bluetooth user console (e.g., keyboard, mouse) to control both non-Bluetooth computers and Bluetooth master machines such as tablet computers, smart phones, etc. The switch device includes a console port for connecting to the console and one or more computer ports for connecting to one or more computers, as well as a Bluetooth module for communicating with Bluetooth master machines. A controller processes input device data received via the console port, and either sends the data to a selected Bluetooth master machine or a selected computer, or perform other functions such as switching, Bluetooth device pairing and disconnecting based on the input device data. The controller stores link information of the Bluetooth master machines already paired with the computer switch for quickly switching to a Bluetooth master machine. The switch device can be with or without video switching.