USB Network Adapters Extend Cable Length Over Distinct Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
The USB 2.0 standard is limited to 5-meter long cables and does not support network configurations with multiple USB hosts and distributed control, making it inadequate for connecting USB devices over longer distances and complex network topologies with multiple hosts and devices.
Innovation Solution
A network architecture that connects USB devices and hosts over distinct paths using USB host and device adaptors, enabling communication over longer cables and multiple hosts without a common network node, utilizing network control and data planes for discovery and data transport, and implementing partial USB enumeration for device descriptor reading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If USB cables are extended beyond 5 meters to connect devices over longer distances, then the connection distance is improved, but signal integrity and communication reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces network infrastructure (switches, routers) and protocol adapters as intermediary devices between USB hosts and devices. These intermediaries regenerate and retransmit USB data packets over the network, effectively extending the USB connection distance beyond cable length limitations while maintaining signal integrity through network-based signal restoration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the physical USB cable connection with a network-based communication path. Instead of relying on electrical signals traveling through extended cables, the system uses network protocols to transmit USB data packets over IP networks, substituting mechanical/electrical connection with digital packet routing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple USB hosts are connected in a network configuration, then system versatility and device sharing are improved, but control complexity and addressing difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements USB network adapters that can function both as USB hosts and USB devices, allowing them to operate in dual roles within the network. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall network architecture by providing universal nodes that can initiate connections in either direction, reducing the need for separate host and device controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements discovery protocols where USB network adapters continuously probe the network for other adapters and devices, automatically building and updating a network topology map. This feedback mechanism allows the system to dynamically adapt to network changes and automatically manage connections without manual configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If USB connections are established over network paths with multiple hops, then connection flexibility is improved, but latency and data transmission speed worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements connection caching where established USB connections are stored and reused for subsequent data transfers. Instead of repeatedly traversing the full network path for each USB transaction, the system pre-establishes connection states and caches routing information, reducing the effective path length for data transfers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains persistent USB connection states over the network, keeping connection contexts alive during idle periods. This allows USB data transfers to resume quickly without re-establishing connections, maintaining continuous useful action and reducing the impact of network hops on overall transmission speed.
Data Source
AI summary
Connecting USB devices with USB hosts over distinct network paths, including the following steps: Connecting USB hosts with respective USB host adaptors (USBHs), essentially according to USB specification timings. Connecting USB devices with respective USB device adaptors (USBDs). Enabling the USBDs and the USBHs to communicate over a network that can connect each USBD with each USBH. Initiating USB connections over the network between the USB devices and the USB hosts. And operating at least two of the USB connections over the network essentially simultaneously and without any common network node.