Multiplexer-Based Data Bus Port Switching for Server Space Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The design of devices with multiple data ports, such as USB ports, can be cumbersome and space-intensive, particularly in servers where real estate is limited, leading to design limitations and increased height when stacked, as multiple ports are required for controller and processor communication.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a multiplexer operatively coupled to a data bus connector, which automatically switches between a controller coupled state and a processor coupled state based on received signals, allowing a single data port to function as both a controller and processor port, thereby reducing the number of physical ports needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple data ports are provided for controller and processor communication, then communication functionality is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single data port that can function as both a controller port and a processor port through the use of a multiplexer. The multiplexer allows the same physical port to be dynamically assigned to different components based on operational needs, eliminating the requirement for separate dedicated ports for each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the controller port and processor port functions into a single shared data port. By merging these previously separate communication interfaces into one unified port with dynamic switching capability, the system reduces the total number of physical ports while maintaining full communication functionality for both components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple data ports are provided for controller and processor communication, then communication functionality is improved, but device height increases when stacked
Solution Approach 1:
The multiplexer enables a single data port to serve multiple communication purposes (controller and processor connections), reducing the number of physical ports needed and thereby decreasing the vertical space required for port arrangements when devices are stacked.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the controller and processor data ports into one shared port, the overall device footprint is reduced, which directly addresses the issue of increased device height when multiple ports are required.
3Area of stationary object
If a single data port is used with multiplexer switching, then space efficiency is improved, but port switching complexity is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The multiplexer acts as an intermediary device that manages the switching between controller and processor connections. This intermediary component handles the complexity of port switching internally, allowing the rest of the system to interact with a simple single-port interface while the multiplexer manages the underlying switching complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiplexer is configured to automatically switch between controller and processor connections based on incoming signals, eliminating the need for manual intervention or complex external control mechanisms. The switching operation is self-managed through automatic detection and routing of data signals.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus can include a processor; a controller; a data bus connector; a multiplexer operatively coupled to the data bus connector where the multiplexer includes a controller coupled state operatively coupled to the controller and a processor coupled state operatively coupled to the processor; and circuitry that responds to a signal received via the data bus connector to determine the coupled state of the multiplexer as being one of the controller coupled state and the processor coupled state. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.