Isochronous USB Communication via Networked Dummy Packets
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing technologies face delays and synchronization issues in isochronous data transfer between USB devices and network clients due to network latency, leading to inefficiencies in communication and timing management when USB devices with isochronous data ports are connected via networks rather than directly to PCs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method and system where a peripheral device server driver module manages isochronous communication by creating dummy communications and adjusting transmission schedules and buffers to maintain communication sequences and prevent timing out, including queue management, time synchronization, and delay control mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If USB devices with isochronous data ports are connected to network clients via networks, then the distance between devices and PCs can be extended and networked connectivity is enabled, but communication delays and synchronization issues occur due to network latency
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates and pre-positions IRPs in transmission queues based on expected timing requirements. By preparing communications in advance and scheduling their transmission proactively, the system compensates for network latency and ensures timely delivery despite the extended physical distance and network intermediate steps.
Solution Approach 2:
A driver module acts as an intermediary between the USB device and the network, managing the complex timing and synchronization requirements. This intermediary layer handles the conversion and coordination between isochronous USB communication protocols and network protocols, absorbing and managing the timing discrepancies introduced by the network connection.
2Measurement precision
If USB devices are connected directly to PCs, then communication timing is precise and synchronization is maintained, but the devices must be placed within limited physical distance and cannot be networked
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts transmission schedules and timing parameters based on actual network conditions and device responses. By making timing flexible and adaptive rather than rigid, the system maintains synchronization precision while accommodating the variable latencies inherent in network connections, thus enabling both precision and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes timing parameters such as transmission intervals, buffer sizes, and scheduling deadlines to optimize performance for networked connections. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system adapts the communication protocol to work effectively over networks while preserving the essential timing requirements of isochronous data transfer.
3Adaptability or versatility
If IRPs are transmitted through the network to peripheral devices, then networked connectivity is achieved, but response time increases and timing synchronization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous transmission of IRPs through the network by implementing robust error handling, automatic retransmission mechanisms, and persistent connection management. This continuity ensures that data transfer remains efficient and productive despite the added complexity of network communication, preventing interruptions and maintaining steady throughput.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for helping maintain isochronous communications with peripheral devices (308), such as USB devices, over a network (302). Some methods for facilitating isochronous IN communication include noting (1906) passage of a predetermined interval without communication (310) from the peripheral device driver (402), and then creating (1908) a dummy communication (312) and sending (1910) it over the network toward the peripheral device to maintain isochronous communication toward the peripheral device. Some methods for facilitating isochronous OUT communication include noting (2006) passage of a predetermined interval without receipt, over the network, of a responsive communication (310) from the peripheral device in response to a first communication, and then creating (2008) a dummy communication (312) and sending (2010) it toward the peripheral device driver to maintain isochronous communication transmissions toward the peripheral device driver. The interval between isochronous communication transmissions may be changed (1930) to optimize buffer (314) usage, and delays may be controlled (1922, 2016).