Interface Extension Device for USB 2.0 and 3.0 Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost of USB 3.0 hubs makes dongles compatible with USB 3.0 interfaces expensive, as they require a USB 3.0 hub to provide necessary I/O interfaces, which are often removed in slim notebook designs to save space and weight, leaving users in need of additional connectivity options.
Innovation Solution
An interface extension device that uses a USB 2.0 hub to support both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 standards, incorporating multiple USB hosts and conversion circuits to enable direct connections and signal conversions for various interfaces like USB, DisplayPort, VGA, and network signals, eliminating the need for a USB 3.0 hub.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a USB 3.0 hub is used to provide I/O interfaces, then USB 3.0 compatibility is achieved, but the cost of the dongle becomes too high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the USB host functionality into two separate USB hosts: a first USB host connected through the USB 2.0 hub for USB 2.0 devices, and a second USB host directly connected to the USB 3.0 port for USB 3.0 devices. This segmentation allows USB 3.0 compatibility without requiring an expensive USB 3.0 hub, as each host handles its respective USB version independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The dongle achieves multi-functionality by supporting both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 standards simultaneously through the dual-host architecture. The first interface conversion circuit handles USB 2.0 connections while the second USB host handles USB 3.0 connections, making the dongle universally compatible with both USB versions without requiring separate dongles.
2Weight of moving object
If I/O interfaces are removed to make the notebook thinner and lighter, then the notebook profile is slimmer, but users still need connectivity options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dongle as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between the slimmed-down notebook and traditional I/O interfaces. The dongle connects to the notebook's USB port and provides additional I/O interfaces including USB 2.0, USB 3.0, DisplayPort, VGA, and network connections, allowing users to maintain connectivity options while keeping the notebook thin and light.
Solution Approach 2:
The dongle embodiment implements a nested structure where multiple interface conversion circuits are integrated within a compact housing. The first USB host, second USB host, interface converter, and second interface conversion circuit are all nested within the dongle body, providing multiple I/O interfaces in a space-efficient manner that complements the slim notebook design.
Data Source
AI summary
An interface extension device includes a USB port, a USB hub and a first interface conversion circuit. The USB hub has a first port connected to the USB port. The first interface conversion circuit includes first and second USB hosts. The first USB host is connected to the USB hub and is connected to the USB port through the USB hub. The second host has a bus and is directly connected to the USB port without routing though any USB hub.