Cloud Device Expansion Module for Mobile Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile electronic devices, such as notebooks and tablets, face limitations in expandability and convenience due to the need to carry both the device and an external expansion unit for using peripheral functions, which restricts their use to specific locations.
Innovation Solution
An expansion module that includes a cloud device with a network interface and expansion bus interfaces, allowing peripheral devices to be connected and controlled via either a direct physical connection or remotely through a network, enabling the use of expansion functions at any location without the need for physical proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a docking station with expansion device is used to provide peripheral functions, then expandability is improved, but the user must carry both the mobile electronic device and the expansion device, reducing convenience and mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connection system (physical docking station requiring direct contact and carrying) with a network-based communication system. The expansion device connects to the mobile electronic device through network interfaces (WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.), eliminating the need for physical docking and carrying multiple devices. This substitution resolves the contradiction by maintaining expandability while significantly improving convenience and mobility.
2Ease of operation
If the mobile electronic device is designed to be light and thin to increase convenience and mobility, then ease of operation is improved, but the ability to provide expansion functions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the expansion function from a spatial dimension (requiring physical proximity and docking) to a network dimension (accessible through wireless communication). By using network interfaces, the expansion device can be accessed remotely without occupying physical space next to the mobile device, allowing the device to remain light and thin while still providing comprehensive expansion capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the user wants to use peripheral functions at different locations, then adaptability is improved, but the user must carry both devices simultaneously, reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network as an intermediary between the mobile electronic device and the expansion device. This intermediary enables communication and control without requiring direct physical connection or carrying both devices. The network acts as a mediator that transmits signals and data, allowing the user to access peripheral functions from any location with network connectivity, significantly improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An expansion module is configured to provide expansion functions to a mobile electronic device. The expansion module includes a cloud device and at least one first expansion device. The cloud device includes a first expansion bus interface and a network interface. The first expansion device is coupled to the cloud device in a daisy-chain manner, wherein each of the first expansion device includes at least one first peripheral device. The cloud device is coupled to the mobile electronic device through the first expansion bus interface or the network interface, and provides the first peripheral device to the mobile electronic device for use.