KVM Switch Image Processor Integrates Multiple Computer UIs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional KVM switches only display the graphical user interface (GUI) of one connected computer at a time, while other computers' states change continuously, limiting the ability to see changes on multiple computers simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A device with control signal output terminals, a signal processor, video input and output terminals, and an image processor that integrates UI screens from multiple computers and outputs them to a single display, allowing simultaneous display and control of UIs from multiple computers based on input device signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a conventional KVM switch displays only one computer's GUI at a time, then the display shows a single computer's interface clearly, but the user cannot see changes on multiple computers simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The display area is segmented into multiple regions, with each region showing the UI screen of a different computer. The image processor divides the integrated screen into separate display areas corresponding to different computers, allowing simultaneous visualization of multiple computer states without requiring additional physical displays.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using multiple physical displays arranged in space, the patent transitions to a two-dimensional integrated screen that accommodates multiple computer UIs simultaneously. This dimensional transformation allows multiple computer states to be viewed on a single display by organizing them in a spatial layout on the screen.
2Ease of operation
If control signals are directed to one computer at a time, then the control signal processing is simple and focused, but the user cannot interact with multiple computers simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The signal processor acts as an intermediary between the input device and multiple computers. It receives control signals, determines which computer should receive them based on the current display state and signal type, and routes the signals accordingly. This intermediary function enables seamless switching and simultaneous interaction with multiple computers without requiring complex user management.
Solution Approach 2:
The control signal output terminal is designed to be universal, capable of connecting to and controlling multiple different computers through a single interface. The signal processor enables this terminal to dynamically adapt its function to control different computers based on the integrated display state, providing multi-functionality without requiring separate control connections for each computer.
3Loss of information
If the display shows only one computer's UI screen, then the interface is simple and easy to understand, but the user loses awareness of other connected computers' states
Solution Approach 1:
The image processor merges the UI screens of multiple computers into a single integrated screen that is then displayed on one monitor. This combining approach allows the user to view all computer states simultaneously in one display area, eliminating the need to switch between displays or lose awareness of other computers while efficiently utilizing the available display space.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for signal switching and processing. A plurality of control signal output terminals are connected to a plurality of computers. A control signal input terminal receives control signals from an input device. A signal processor determines a control signal output terminal to output the control signals, thus, the User interface (UI) of a first computer connected thereto is controlled. A plurality of video input terminals connect to the computers. A video output terminal is connected to a display. An image processor receives UI screens of the computers from the video input terminals, integrates the UI screens into an integrated screen, and outputs the integrated screen to the display, thus, current UI screens of the computers reflecting the control signals are simultaneously displayed.