USB-over-Network Architecture with Distinct Data Plane Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The USB 2.0 standard is limited to 5-meter long cables and does not support connections over a network with multiple USB hosts and distributed control, lacking edge initiation of USB connections, edge addressing of USB packets, and efficient bandwidth allocation.
Innovation Solution
A network architecture that connects USB devices to USB hosts using distinct network data plane connections, featuring network control and data planes to discover device capabilities, transport USB data, and initiate simultaneous USB-over-network connections without a common network node, utilizing USB host and device adaptors to manage and enumerate devices dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If USB connections are extended beyond 5 meters using network infrastructure, then connection distance is improved, but network complexity and protocol adaptation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
USB host and device adaptors serve as intermediary components that bridge the USB protocol and network protocols. These adaptors translate USB enumeration and data transfer protocols into network-compatible formats, enabling extended connections while maintaining USB compatibility. The adaptors handle protocol conversion, making the network infrastructure transparent to USB devices and hosts.
Solution Approach 2:
The USB connection system is segmented into distinct network nodes (USB hosts, USB devices, and adaptors) connected through network infrastructure. This segmentation allows each component to operate independently on the network while maintaining USB protocol compliance, enabling extended distances through network routing rather than direct cable connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple USB hosts are connected to the same network, then system versatility is improved, but device enumeration and connection management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The USB device adaptors and host adaptors perform self-service enumeration by automatically discovering each other on the network and establishing connections without manual intervention. The adaptors handle address assignment, device detection, and connection management autonomously, reducing the complexity of multi-host enumeration while enabling versatile multi-host configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If USB data is transmitted over network infrastructure, then connection flexibility is improved, but data transmission reliability compared to direct USB connection decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The physical USB cable connection is replaced with network infrastructure for data transmission. The USB host and device adaptors encapsulate USB data packets within network protocols, transmitting them over network infrastructure. This substitution provides connection flexibility while maintaining data integrity through protocol encapsulation and network error handling mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Connecting USB devices with USB hosts over distinct network data plane connections, including the following steps: USB hosts are connected with respective USB host adaptors (USBHs) according to USB specification timings. USB devices are connected 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, wherein the network includes network control plane and network data plane. Initiating first, second, and third USB-over-network-data-plane connections from the USB hosts to the USB devices. And operating the at least two USB-over-network-data-plane connections essentially simultaneously and without any common network node.