COM Express Modular Board Universal Connector Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular apparatuses supporting the COM Express standard are limited to either Type 10 or Type 6, as they require specific pin definitions and functionalities, making it difficult to switch between these types without additional connectors, which increases costs and reduces flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular apparatus with a processor that determines the modular type of connectors based on signals from both the modular board and carrier board, allowing for the use of a single A-B type connector to support multiple COM Express types by adjusting pin definitions and using control methods such as hardware strapping and switch circuits to switch between COM Express Type 6 and Type 10.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular apparatuses use specific pin definitions and functionalities for Type 10 or Type 6, then they can support these specific COM Express types, but they cannot switch between these types without additional connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single connector that can support multiple COM Express types (Type 6 and Type 10) through configurable pin definitions. The connector is designed to be multi-functional, where the same physical connector can be configured to operate in different modes depending on the detected modular type signals, eliminating the need for separate connectors for each type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the pin definitions and connector functionalities configurable and switchable based on detected modular type signals. The system can dynamically adjust which pins are assigned to which functionalities depending on whether Type 6 or Type 10 mode is detected, allowing the connector to adapt its behavior rather than being fixed to a single configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional connectors are added to support multiple COM Express types, then the apparatus can switch between types, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for multiple connectors by designing a single universal connector that can perform the functions of both Type 6 and Type 10 connectors. This reduces the quantity of connectors from multiple to one, thereby reducing costs while maintaining the capability to support multiple COM Express types through software-based configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of separate Type 6 and Type 10 connectors into a single connector. By combining the pin definitions and functionalities of what would traditionally require separate connectors into one unified connector, the system reduces component quantity and cost while maintaining multi-type support capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional connectors are added to support multiple COM Express types, then the apparatus can switch between types, but flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances operational flexibility by implementing dynamic configuration capabilities. The system can switch between Type 6 and Type 10 modes on-the-fly based on detected modular type signals, without requiring physical reconfiguration or additional connectors. This dynamic switching capability makes the system more flexible and easier to operate compared to static multi-connector solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying pin definition assignments and connector functionalities based on detected modular type signals. Rather than requiring physical changes or additional hardware, the system changes operational parameters (which pins are assigned to which functions) to adapt to different COM Express types, thereby improving ease of operation and configuration flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular apparatus is provided. The modular apparatus includes: a modular board apparatus and a carrier board apparatus. The modular board apparatus includes a processor and a first connector. The carrier board apparatus includes a second connector arranged to be paired with the first connector to electrically connect the carrier board apparatus to the modular board apparatus. The processor determines a first modular type of the first connector and the second connector according to a first modular type signal from the carrier board apparatus and a second modular type signal from the modular board apparatus. When the first modular type matches a predetermined modular type of the processor, the processor transmits signals corresponding to the first modular type to the carrier board apparatus through the first connector and the second connector.