Multipurpose USB Dongle for Offline Data Transfer and Machine Booting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring data between machines without network connectivity are cumbersome and prone to errors, requiring multiple steps and not allowing devices like SD cards to boot machines or update themselves.
Innovation Solution
A removable dongle apparatus with a computer processor, memory, and communication ports that can switch between host and device modes, enabling it to connect to external processors and memories for updating image files and booting machines via USB, Ethernet, or WiFi.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a two-step transfer process using USB mass storage device is used to transfer files without network connectivity, then data transfer is possible, but the process becomes tedious and prone to operator errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the USB mass storage device functionality with a bootable device into a single integrated apparatus. This allows the device to both store transfer data and boot the target machine, eliminating the need for separate USB drives and manual intervention in the transfer process.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to automatically perform the data transfer process once booted. It self-configures network connections, automatically transfers files from the USB storage to the target machine, and manages the entire workflow without requiring operator intervention, thereby eliminating human error.
2Adaptability or versatility
If SD cards are used for data storage and transfer, then portability is improved, but they cannot boot machines due to BIOS mode requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal apparatus that can function both as a bootable device and as a USB mass storage device. It incorporates multiple interfaces (USB, Ethernet, WiFi) and can operate in different modes (host mode and device mode), making it adaptable to various scenarios while maintaining reliable boot capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus dynamically switches between host mode and device mode depending on the operational requirements. When connected to a computer, it operates as a USB mass storage device; when booting a machine, it operates as a bootable device, thereby adapting its functionality to the current context.
3Ease of operation
If wireless USB sticks are used for data transfer, then ease of connection is improved, but they cannot run algorithms or update themselves to boot machines
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus includes a self-updating capability that allows it to automatically download and install new image files and algorithms. When connected to a network or USB storage, it retrieves updates and configures itself, enabling it to execute new algorithms and maintain boot capability without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus performs preliminary actions by automatically checking for and downloading new image files before booting. It proactively updates its algorithms and boot images, ensuring it is ready to boot machines with the latest versions without requiring manual configuration.
4Productivity
If UDP file transfer is used for network transfer, then simplicity is improved, but transfer speed becomes slow under certain circumstances
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus dynamically changes transfer parameters based on the operational context. It can switch between different transfer modes and protocols, adjusting packet sizes, buffer configurations, and protocol selections to optimize transfer speed for specific scenarios while maintaining manageable complexity through automated parameter management.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer booting apparatus includes a computer processor, a computer memory coupled to the computer processor, and a communication port coupled to the computer processor. The computer processor is configurable for operation in a host mode and a device mode. The host mode connects to an external computer processor and an external computer memory via the communication port, checks for a new image file or a revised image file stored in the external computer processor or the external computer memory, and loads the new image file or the revised image file into the computer memory. The device mode boots a device via the communication port using the new image file or the revised image file.