USB Hub Multi-Host Bridge for Simultaneous Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current USB technologies restrict simultaneous access to USB devices downstream of a hub or switch, requiring devices to be re-configured and losing internal state information when access is switched between hosts, limiting flexibility and compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A USB hub system with a multi-host bridge (MHB) that automatically switches operational modes, enabling host-to-host communication and sharing of USB devices among multiple hosts without the need for re-configuration, using control logic and circuitry to manage port modes and bridge communication between hosts and devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a USB hub is used to allow multiple USB devices to be coupled to the host system, then the quantity of accessible devices is improved, but simultaneous access to USB devices by multiple hosts is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The USB hub is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in traditional host-to-device mode and also in host-to-host mode. The hub includes a multi-host bridge that enables it to facilitate communication between multiple USB hosts simultaneously, allowing a single USB device to be accessed by multiple hosts at the same time without requiring re-configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-host bridge acts as an intermediary component within the USB hub that mediates communication between multiple USB hosts and downstream USB devices. It translates and manages data traffic between hosts operating in different modes, enabling simultaneous access while maintaining proper USB protocol compliance
2Adaptability or versatility
If USB devices are switched between multiple USB Host controllers using stand-alone USB switches, then device sharing is improved, but the device must be re-configured causing loss of internal state information
Solution Approach 1:
The USB hub maintains continuous access to USB devices by multiple hosts simultaneously through the multi-host bridge, eliminating the need to switch or re-configure device connections. This continuous access preserves the device's internal state information while enabling multiple hosts to share the device without interruption or data loss
3Ease of operation
If USB devices are accessed by a single host at a time, then configuration simplicity is improved, but flexibility and compatibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The USB hub dynamically adapts its operational mode based on the connection status of USB elements. It can automatically detect when a USB element is operating in host mode and switch the port between host and device modes accordingly, allowing the system to maintain configuration simplicity while providing flexible multi-host access capability
Data Source
AI summary
A universal serial bus (USB) hub includes an upstream port configured to be communicatively coupled to a USB host, a downstream port, and a USB hub core circuit. The circuit is configured to determine a detachment from the downstream port, determine whether a USB element has reattached to the downstream port in USB mode, and, based on a determination that the USB element has reattached to the downstream port in USB host mode, perform USB multi-host bridging for the USB host and the USB element.