USB-Network Conversion Device for Remote Connection Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
USB connections are limited to 127 devices, and existing USB-LAN conversion devices are fixed, preventing connections to remote servers or personal computers.
Innovation Solution
A USB connection control system comprising multiple USB-network conversion devices and a management device connected via a network, where the management device holds connection information for each USB device, and the conversion devices communicate to establish connections across the network, allowing for the connection of 127 or more USB devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If USB devices are connected using traditional USB protocol, then connection stability is ensured, but the maximum number of connectable devices is limited to 127
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the USB connection architecture into multiple USB-network conversion devices, each managing a subset of USB devices. Instead of one centralized USB host managing all 127 devices, the system segments the connection management across multiple conversion devices that communicate via network protocols, thereby extending the total number of connectable USB devices beyond the traditional 127-device limit
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a network communication layer as an intermediary between USB devices and the host system. USB-network conversion devices translate USB communication protocols into network protocols (such as TCP/IP), allowing USB devices to communicate remotely through the network infrastructure rather than requiring direct USB connectivity, thus overcoming the physical connection limitations
2Adaptability or versatility
If USB-LAN conversion device is used for remote connection, then remote accessibility is improved, but the conversion device must be pre-fixed and cannot connect to unset devices
Solution Approach 1:
The USB-network conversion device automatically performs device discovery and connection establishment without requiring manual configuration. When a USB device is connected, the conversion device autonomously detects it, retrieves connection information from the management device, and establishes network communication automatically, eliminating the need for users to manually set up conversion devices for each new USB device
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the USB-network conversion device continuously monitors USB device connections and communicates with the management device to update connection information. The management device provides connection information based on identification information, creating a closed-loop system that automatically adapts to changing USB device configurations without user intervention
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure aims to enable a total of 127 or more USB devices to be connected on the same network regardless of connection sites.A USB connection control system of the present disclosure is a USB connection control system including a plurality of USB-network conversion devices and a management device being connected to each other via a network, in which the management device holds, per user, connection information defining a connection destination of a USB device connected to the USB-network conversion device, and at least one of the plurality of USB-network conversion devices receives, from the management device, the connection information corresponding to identification information unique to the at least one of the plurality of USB-network conversion devices and communicates with a to-be-connected USB-network conversion device based on the received connection information, and to establish connection with a USB device that is connected to the to-be-connected USB-network conversion device.