Universal Peripheral Connector for Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile data devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are typically configured to connect as USB clients to computers but need to function as USB servers to connect with peripherals like printers and cameras, and existing solutions like USB On-The-Go require USB 2.0, which many devices do not have.
Innovation Solution
A universal peripheral connector apparatus with a USB port, controller, microprocessor, and USB driver that enables mobile devices to connect to peripherals by detecting and configuring drivers, either stored locally or obtained over the air, to function as USB hosts, supporting various interfaces like VGA for connecting to projectors and other devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If USB On-The-Go technology is used to enable mobile devices to connect to peripherals, then the device can function as USB host, but it requires USB 2.0 which many existing devices do not have
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (USB host adapter or cradle) that bridges the mobile data device and USB peripherals. This adapter contains a USB host controller that interfaces with the mobile device's USB client port, enabling peripheral connectivity without requiring the mobile device itself to support USB host mode or USB 2.0. The adapter acts as a mediator that translates and manages the USB communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution segments the USB host functionality into a separate external device rather than requiring it to be integrated into the mobile device. By dividing the system into the mobile data device (client), the USB host adapter (host controller), and the USB peripheral, the patent enables host mode functionality in devices that only have client-capable USB ports.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mobile devices are configured to connect as USB clients to computers, then they can synchronize data, but they cannot connect to USB peripherals like printers and cameras
Solution Approach 1:
The USB host adapter automatically detects when a USB peripheral is connected and initiates the driver installation process. The system monitors the USB port for device attachment, automatically retrieves appropriate drivers, and configures the connection without requiring user intervention. This self-service approach maintains ease of operation while enabling peripheral connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the USB host adapter with driver installation capabilities and automatic device detection routines. When a peripheral is connected, the adapter is already prepared to identify the device type, retrieve the appropriate driver, and establish communication, eliminating the need for manual configuration steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal peripheral connector is implemented as a standalone device or cradle, then it enables USB host functionality for all mobile devices, but it adds additional hardware requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The USB host adapter is designed as a universal device that can work with multiple types of mobile data devices (smartphones, PDAs, feature phones) regardless of their specific USB implementation. The adapter provides multi-functional support for various USB peripherals including cameras, printers, storage devices, and projectors, eliminating the need for device-specific or peripheral-specific adapters.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal peripheral connector apparatus for a mobile device and in communication with the mobile device. The universal peripheral connector apparatus including: at least one universal serial bus (USB) connector providing at least one connection; at least one USB host controller configured to control the at least one USB connection; a microprocessor configured to control the at least one USB host controller, the microprocessor having an operating system; a USB device control interface on the mobile device configured to communicate and control the universal connector apparatus; and a USB driver configured to operate within the operating system of the universal peripheral connector to enable the mobile device to connect to one or more peripherals via the at least one USB connector.