KVM Switching Device Virtual Port Pairing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current keyboard-video-mouse (KVM) systems lack an efficient method for users to pair and configure user interfaces with KVM switching devices, limiting centralized control and monitoring capabilities.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a virtual port system within KVM switching devices allows user interfaces to communicate with the KVM switching device and host computer systems, enabling pairing and configuration, thereby facilitating centralized control and monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a virtual port system is implemented to enable pairing and configuration, then user control and monitoring capabilities are enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser control and monitoring capabilitiesVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a virtual port as an intermediary interface between the user interface and the KVM switching device. This virtual port enables pairing and configuration communication without requiring direct physical connections or complex wiring changes. The virtual port acts as a mediator that facilitates user control and monitoring capabilities while maintaining the existing physical infrastructure, thus enhancing functionality without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If virtual port communication is implemented, then pairing and configuration efficiency improve, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepairing and configuration efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical or physical pairing methods (such as manual cable connections or physical switch configurations) with virtual port communication. This substitution enables automated pairing and configuration processes, significantly improving efficiency. The virtual communication interface eliminates the need for complex physical setup procedures while the system manages the increased complexity through software-based solutions rather than additional hardware components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If user interface pairing is enabled through virtual ports, then centralized control capability is improved, but communication protocol complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecentralized control capabilityVSAvoidcommunication protocol complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The virtual port system is designed with universal communication capabilities that can handle multiple functions including pairing, configuration, control commands, and monitoring data transmission through a single interface. This multi-functionality approach enables centralized control of multiple host computers through one user interface without requiring separate communication protocols for each function. The virtual port universally manages diverse communication needs, improving adaptability while keeping the protocol structure unified rather than fragmented.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9336161B2Keyboard-video-mouse system and method of providing and using the same

Publication Date: 2016.05.10 BELKIN INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

Some embodiments include keyboard-video-mouse systems. Other embodiments of related systems and methods are also disclosed.