KVM Switch Dynamic Port Segmentation for Bulk Transfer Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing KVM switches disrupt user interactions and workflow when switching between multiple information handling systems, as ongoing tasks may be interrupted, requiring users to complete and close operations before switching, which can be time-consuming, especially for tasks like retrieving large files.
Innovation Solution
A KVM switch system that manages peripheral communication ports to allow seamless selection and interface with multiple information handling systems, distinguishing between HID and non-HID peripherals, and providing notifications or maintaining data transfers to prevent interruptions during bulk or high-utilization operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a KVM switch is used to interface with multiple information handling systems, then the end user can select different systems to interact with the display and peripherals, but ongoing tasks on one system may be interrupted when switching to another system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the peripheral communication ports into two distinct groups: HID peripheral ports and non-HID peripheral ports. This segmentation allows different port groups to be independently assigned to different information handling systems, enabling simultaneous multi-system operation without interrupting ongoing tasks on either system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic port assignment where the KVM switch can flexibly allocate different port groups to different information handling systems based on current operational needs. The system dynamically determines whether to switch ports based on whether bulk/isochronous transfers are active, allowing adaptive response to changing task requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the KVM switch switches between information handling systems, then the end user can access different systems, but time-intensive tasks such as retrieving large files are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection of bulk/isochronous transfer status before executing a KVM switch operation. By detecting ongoing time-intensive tasks in advance, the system can prevent switching during these operations, allowing them to complete without interruption and avoiding time losses associated with task cancellation or recovery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the KVM switch monitors the status of data transfers between information handling systems and peripheral devices. This feedback information is used to control switching operations, ensuring that switches are only performed when it is safe to do so without disrupting ongoing tasks.
3Productivity
If the KVM switch allows simultaneous interface with multiple information handling systems, then workflow efficiency is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies device complexity by segmenting peripheral ports into fixed groups (HID and non-HID) that can be independently assigned. This segmentation creates a manageable structure for multi-system operation, reducing the complexity of port management compared to individual port-by-port configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal port groups that can be assigned to different information handling systems based on operational needs. The HID peripheral ports and non-HID peripheral ports serve multiple functions across different systems, reducing the need for system-specific configurations and simplifying overall device management.
Data Source
AI summary
A display includes a keyboard, video mouse (KVM) switch that interfaces plural peripheral communication ports and plural information handling system ports. The KVM switch in a first configuration accepts video from one of the information handling system ports for presentation as visual images at a display panel and interfaces all of the plural peripheral communication ports with the one of the information handling system ports. When an end user commands a change to a different information handling system port and the KVM switch detects that a predetermined information transfer is taking place at the one of the information handling system ports, such as a bulk isochronous transfer or greater than a predetermined bandwidth utilization, the KVM switch changes the interface of peripheral devices and video to the second information handling system port while maintaining the transfer of the predetermined type of information with the first information handling system port.