Multi-Chassis Coordinated Display via Master-Slave IHS Backplane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information handling systems (IHSs) lack the ability to coordinate displays across multiple units, resulting in independent operations of LCD devices when multiple modular network switch IHSs are coupled to the same enclosure, limiting user interaction and information sharing.
Innovation Solution
A multi-IHS coordinated display system is implemented, where a master IHS with a master processing system and display device is configured to receive information from a slave IHS's screen sub-agent, determining user interface screens for both devices to provide a coordinated display, allowing synchronized user interaction across multiple display devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple modular network switch IHSs are coupled to the same IHS enclosure with independent LCD devices, then each device can operate autonomously, but user interaction and information sharing are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent display devices into a coordinated display system where a master display device and slave display devices work together. The master display device receives input and displays it along with coordinating slave display devices, enabling information sharing and enhanced user interaction while maintaining autonomous operation capabilities through the backplane connection.
2Device complexity
If LCD devices on modular network switch IHSs operate independently, then device complexity is reduced, but coordinated user interaction across multiple devices is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a backplane as an intermediary component that connects the master display device with slave display devices. This backplane enables coordinated operation and information sharing between devices while keeping each individual device relatively simple in structure. The master display device acts as a mediator that receives input and distributes it to appropriate slave display devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If display devices are physically connected via backplane, then coordinated display is enabled, but device complexity and connection requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal backplane connection system that serves multiple functions: providing coordinated display capability, enabling information sharing, and maintaining autonomous operation. The same backplane infrastructure supports both independent device operation and coordinated display modes, reducing the need for separate connection systems and minimizing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-chassis coordinated display system a first chassis having a first display device located on the first chassis and a master screen agent. The master screen agent is configured to receive device information from a screen sub-agent that is located in a second chassis that includes a second display device. The master screen agent uses the device information to determine a first user interface screen for a user interface and a second user interface screen for the user interface, and sends the second user interface screen to the screen sub-agent. The master screen agent may then display the first user interface screen on the first display device while the screen sub-agent displays the second user interface screen on the second display device to provide a coordinated display of the user interface on the first display device and the second display device.