USB Host Adaptor Network Addressing for Long-Distance Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The USB 2.0 standard is limited to 5-meter long cables and does not support networks with multiple USB hosts and distributed control, lacking the ability to initiate USB connections over a network with multiple USB devices and hosts, edge addressing of USB packets, and bandwidth allocation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method using USB host adaptors and device adaptors to connect non-collocated USB hosts and devices over a non-USB network, enabling communication and data transfer while discovering device presence and capabilities, and managing connections and addresses across the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If USB devices are connected using standard USB cables, then connection reliability is maintained, but cable length is limited to 5 meters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces network infrastructure (routers, switches, modems) as intermediary devices that enable USB communication over long distances. USB host and device adaptors connect to existing network infrastructure, allowing data transmission beyond the 5-meter cable limitation while maintaining connection reliability through the network's routing and switching capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical USB cable connection system with an electronic network-based communication system. Instead of relying on physical USB cables for long-distance connections, the system uses network protocols and electromagnetic signal transmission through existing network infrastructure to achieve extended reach while maintaining reliability.
2Productivity
If USB host controller polls the bus in round-robin fashion, then simple control is maintained, but bandwidth utilization is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic bandwidth allocation where the USB host adaptor adjusts polling intervals and data transfer priorities based on real-time network conditions and device requirements. High-bandwidth devices receive more frequent polling and allocated bandwidth, while low-traffic devices are polled less frequently, optimizing overall network productivity without requiring complex manual configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If USB connections are initiated from host controller, then centralized control is maintained, but distributed network initiation is not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables USB devices to initiate connections by inverting the traditional host-initiated model. USB device adaptors can discover USB host adaptors on the network and initiate connection requests, allowing distributed network initiation while maintaining manageable control architecture through standardized connection protocols and automatic host acceptance.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple USB hosts and devices are connected over network, then network versatility is improved, but addressing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal USB host and device adaptors that can operate in multiple roles and communicate with various USB devices and hosts on the network. These adaptors use standardized network protocols and automatic discovery mechanisms, providing versatile multi-host, multi-device connectivity while simplifying addressing through uniform interface standards and automatic connection management.
Data Source
AI summary
Addressing, by USB host adaptors, packets conveying USB data over a non-USB network, including the steps of: Connecting USB hosts with respective USB host adaptors (USBHs). Connecting USB devices with respective USB device adaptors (USBDs). Enabling, by the non-USB network, each USBHs to discover the presence and capabilities of each USBDs. Initiating USB-over-network connections between the USB hosts and the USB devices. Receiving, by the USBHs, information about the USB devices and the USB-over-network connections. And adding, by the USBHs, network addresses of the USBDs to packets conveying USB data from the USB hosts to the USB devices.