Single USB Host Controller with Dynamic SOF Cycle Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing USB systems require multiple host controllers to support different standards (USB 1.0, USB 1.1, and USB 2.0), leading to complex hardware and high manufacturing costs due to the need for different data frame cycles and scheduling interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A single-port USB system with a speed detection circuitry and a host controller that uses the Enhanced Host Controller Interface (EHCI) standard, capable of detecting transmission speeds and adjusting its operations to comply with USB 2.0, USB 1.1, and USB 1.0 standards by generating a Start of Frame (SOF) signal, allowing a single host controller to manage various data streams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple USB host controllers are disposed to support USB 1.0, USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 standards, then compatibility with different USB standards is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single USB host controller that can operate in multiple modes (USB 1.0, USB 1.1, and USB 2.0) by dynamically configuring its operational parameters. The controller includes a speed detection circuitry that identifies the connected device type and adjusts the frame cycle accordingly (1ms for USB 1.0/1.1, 125μs for USB 2.0), allowing one controller to perform the functions of multiple specialized controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The USB host controller employs dynamic parameter adjustment based on the detected device speed. The frame cycle parameter is changed from 1ms to 125μs depending on whether the connected device is USB 1.0/1.1 or USB 2.0, enabling the controller to adapt its timing characteristics in real-time rather than being fixed to a single standard.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple USB host controllers are disposed to support different data frame cycles, then support for different USB standards is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal USB host controller that incorporates support for both 1ms and 125μs frame cycles within a single device. The controller includes configuration registers and timing circuitry that can be programmed to generate the appropriate frame cycles based on the connected device type, eliminating the need to manufacture separate controllers for different USB standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the USB host controller based on the detected device type. By detecting whether the connected device requires 1ms or 125μs frame cycles and then configuring the controller accordingly through software or hardware switches, the system achieves multi-standard support without requiring multiple physical controllers, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
3Device complexity
If a single USB host controller is used for all USB standards, then device complexity and manufacturing cost are reduced, but the ability to support different data frame cycles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single USB host controller incorporates dynamic reconfiguration capability that allows it to switch between 1ms and 125μs frame cycles based on the connected device. The controller includes a speed detection circuitry that automatically identifies the required frame cycle and adjusts the internal timing generators accordingly, enabling one static hardware design to perform dynamic multi-standard operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a speed detection circuitry and configuration mechanism as an intermediary between the single USB host controller and the connected devices. This intermediary detects the device type and configures the controller's frame cycle parameter appropriately, allowing the single controller to mediate between different USB standards without requiring multiple specialized controllers.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal serial bus (USB) with single port and a host controller thereof are provided. The USB comprises a USB port, a speed detection circuitry, a start of frame (SOF) generator, and a host controller. The USB port is electrically coupled to an external circuitry. The speed detection circuitry is electrically coupled to the USB port for detecting a transmission speed between the USB and the external circuitry via the USB port to provide a detecting result. The SOF generator is electrically coupled to the speed detection circuitry for receiving the detecting result and outputting a SOF signal, to determine a cycle of the SOF signal based on the detecting result. The host controller is electrically coupled to the SOF generator and the speed detection circuitry for adjusting the host controller based on SOF signal cycle to comply with the USB 2.0, USB 1.1 and USB 1.0 transmission standards.