USB Switch with Multi-Role Ports for Dynamic Path Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
USB hubs with statically defined ports struggle to accommodate role reversal between host and client devices, as seen in USB OTG, which limits dynamic switching and efficient data path configuration.
Innovation Solution
A USB adapter comprising a USB hub and switch that determines the roles of connected devices, configuring communication paths to either bypass or include the hub based on whether a device operates as a host or client, using a state machine and switch logic units to manage data paths through connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If USB hub ports are statically defined as host or client device ports, then port configuration is simple and stable, but the hub cannot accommodate role reversal between host and client devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic port role assignment where the USB switch controller detects the operational mode (host or client device) of connected devices and automatically configures the data path accordingly. This allows ports to dynamically change their functional role based on device connection rather than being statically defined, enabling role reversal capability while maintaining simple port physical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The USB switch acts as an intermediary component between the USB hub and connected devices. It includes a data path that can be selectively configured to bypass the hub when a device operates in host mode, or include the hub when the device operates in client device mode. This intermediary switch controller manages the role reversal capability without requiring changes to the hub's static port definitions.
2Productivity
If a USB switch dynamically configures data paths based on device roles, then communication efficiency is optimized, but the switch logic and control mechanisms become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The USB switch controller implements feedback mechanisms by detecting the operational mode of connected USB devices through standard USB protocol interactions. Based on this feedback information about device roles (host or client device), the controller automatically configures the data path to optimize communication efficiency. This feedback-driven approach allows dynamic optimization without requiring complex manual configuration logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing connected USB devices to indicate their operational mode through standard USB role detection mechanisms. The USB switch controller automatically interprets these indications and configures the appropriate data path without external intervention. This self-configuration capability optimizes communication efficiency while minimizing the complexity of control logic by leveraging existing USB protocol features.
3Speed
If the data path bypasses the USB hub for host devices, then data transmission speed is improved, but the hub's centralized control and power management capabilities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The data path configuration is dynamically adjusted based on the operational mode of connected devices. When a device operates as a host, the data path bypasses the USB hub to enable faster direct communication. When devices operate as client devices, the data path includes the hub to maintain centralized control and power management. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction by adapting the data path structure to the specific operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The USB switch controller segments the data path into multiple configurable routes: one path that includes the USB hub for maintaining centralized control and power management, and another path that bypasses the hub for high-speed direct communication. The controller selectively activates the appropriate path segment based on device roles, allowing both fast bypass mode and controlled hub mode to coexist within the same system.
Data Source
AI summary
A Universal Serial Bus (USB) adapter includes a USB hub and a USB switch. The USB hub includes a plurality of downstream ports and one upstream port. The USB switch includes a plurality of connections that comprise a first connection configured to be coupled to a first USB apparatus, a second connection configured to be coupled to a second USB apparatus, a third connection coupled to the USB hub's upstream port, and a fourth connection coupled to one of the USB hub's downstream ports. The USB switch is configured to establish a first communication path between the first and second connections that bypasses the USB hub based on a determination that the first USB apparatus is to operate as a USB host, and to establish a second communication path through the USB hub based on a determination that the first USB apparatus is to operate as a client device.