USB Multi-Host Controller Protocol Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing USB standard does not support communication between multiple hosts, requiring separate physical USB ports and complex connections, which increases hardware complexity and costs, especially in vehicles where multiple hosts need to communicate with each other.
Innovation Solution
A USB multi-host device that uses software to convert and enable communication between multiple hosts by acting as a protocol converter, reducing the need for additional physical ports and cables, by including upstream ports, storage, and a controller that manages data transmission between hosts through logical network devices and end points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple USB ports are physically installed to support communication between multiple hosts, then communication between multiple hosts is enabled, but hardware complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The USB multi-host device enables a single USB port to perform multiple functions by supporting communication between multiple hosts through software-based protocol conversion. The device can dynamically switch between different host roles and communication modes, allowing one physical port to replace multiple dedicated ports while maintaining full communication functionality between all hosts.
Solution Approach 2:
The USB multi-host device acts as an intermediary between multiple hosts, managing communication protocols and data routing. It converts between different USB communication protocols (device-to-host, host-to-host, host-to-device) and routes data packets appropriately, enabling indirect communication between hosts that would otherwise require direct physical connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple USB ports are physically installed to support communication between multiple hosts, then communication between multiple hosts is enabled, but the number of cables and connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple communication channels into a single USB port by implementing software-based protocol conversion and multiplexing. Multiple hosts share the same physical connection through time-division and protocol-based multiplexing, eliminating the need for separate cables for each host connection while maintaining independent communication paths.
3Reliability
If the USB standard is used without modification, then USB communication compatibility is maintained, but multi-host communication is not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces hardware-based protocol handling with software-based protocol conversion. Instead of modifying the physical USB standard or adding hardware circuitry, the system uses firmware/software layers to interpret and convert between different USB communication protocols, maintaining compatibility with standard USB devices while enabling advanced multi-host functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal serial bus (USB) multi-host device includes a plurality of upstream ports connected to a first host and a second host, a storage for storing data to be transmitted from the first host to the second host through the upstream ports, and a controller, and if the storage receives the data, the controller transmitting a signal based on the received data to the second host, and transmitting the stored data to the second host.