USB Connector Multiplexing for Reconfigurable Port Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems face challenges in providing customizable connector functionality, as users may not require all available connectors, leading to increased costs and space usage due to the need for a 'base version' that accommodates all possible configurations.
Innovation Solution
An Information Handling System (IHS) with a processing system and memory that includes a USB connector functionality modification engine, utilizing a multiplexer device to dynamically reconfigure USB connector functionality based on user instructions, allowing only one subsystem to use the USB connector at a time, thus optimizing space and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are provided on the server device surface to accommodate all possible functionality configurations, then all users can access their desired functionality, but the outer surface space is occupied and device costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling a single USB connector to serve multiple functions through dynamic reconfiguration. The connector can switch between different subsystems (e.g., video functionality, enhanced speed USB, remote access controller) based on user needs, allowing one connector to replace what would traditionally require multiple dedicated connectors. This multi-functional capability resolves the contradiction by providing comprehensive functionality coverage without increasing surface space occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through the USB connector functionality modification subsystem that can dynamically reconfigure the connector's assigned functionality. The system allows runtime switching of connector ownership between different subsystems based on user requirements. This dynamic adaptability enables the connector to transform from a static, dedicated-purpose component into a flexible, multi-purpose interface, thereby reducing the total number of connectors needed on the device surface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are provided on the server device surface to accommodate all possible functionality configurations, then all users can access their desired functionality, but device costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces device costs by applying universality - a single USB connector infrastructure supports multiple functionality modes (video, enhanced speed USB, remote access). Instead of manufacturing and stocking multiple server device variants with different connector configurations, the system provides a base version with one reconfigurable USB connector that can be dynamically assigned to different functions. This approach eliminates the need for users to purchase expensive premium versions with multiple dedicated connectors, as their specific functionality needs can be configured through software-based reassignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying the functional parameters of the USB connector through software control rather than changing the physical hardware configuration. The USB connector functionality modification subsystem changes operational parameters (which subsystem has access to the connector, what protocols are enabled) based on user requirements. This software-defined approach to functionality customization avoids the cost of manufacturing multiple hardware variants with different connector configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a base version is designed to accommodate all possible connector configurations, then all functionality is available to all users, but space is not utilized efficiently and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a base version server device with a single USB connector that can be dynamically assigned to serve different subsystems. Instead of including multiple dedicated connectors in the base version, the system provides one connector that can function as video output, enhanced speed USB, or remote access controller interface depending on user configuration needs. This universal approach ensures all functionality is available to all users while minimizing the physical quantity of connectors required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics through the USB connector functionality modification subsystem that enables runtime reassignment of the connector to different subsystems. The base version device starts with a single USB connector that can be dynamically reconfigured based on user requirements. This dynamic capability allows the system to provide comprehensive functionality coverage without permanently allocating multiple connectors, thereby optimizing the quantity of physical components in the base version while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector functionality modification system includes a USB connector coupled to a first subsystem and a second subsystem by a multiplexer device. A USB connector functionality modification subsystem is coupled to the multiplexer device and operates to receive a USB connector functionality modification instruction while the multiplexer device is configured to allow the first subsystem to transmit and receive data via the USB connector and the second subsystem cannot transmit and receive data via the USB connector. In response to receiving the USB connector functionality modification instruction, the USB connector functionality modification subsystem reconfigures the multiplexer device to allow the second subsystem to transmit and receive data via the USB connector while the first subsystem cannot transmit and receive data via the USB connector.