Dual Bus ExpressCard Peripheral for Concurrent PCIe and USB Data Transfer

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Host computing platforms with a single ExpressCard slot cannot utilize both the high-performance PCIe and USB interfaces simultaneously, limiting the functionality of the slot when an ExpressCard module is inserted.

Innovation Solution

A peripheral device configured to fit within the ExpressCard slot, featuring two memory modules that communicate over separate PCIe and USB interfaces, allowing concurrent data exchange between the host and the modules, and optionally using adapters to accommodate various memory card formats.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single ExpressCard slot is used in a host computing platform, then the platform meets space and cost constraints, but the slot cannot support both PCIe and USB interfaces simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface functionalityVSAvoidslot configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ExpressCard slot is segmented into two independent interface pathways: a PCIe interface pathway and a USB interface pathway. Each pathway operates independently with its own controller and connection route to the host platform, allowing simultaneous activation of both interfaces without interference or conflict in the shared physical slot space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The ExpressCard slot is designed with multi-functionality to support both PCIe and USB interfaces concurrently. By integrating dual interface controllers and maintaining separate signal pathways, the single slot can accommodate different card types and perform multiple functions simultaneously, transforming a single-function slot into a universal interface hub.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Speed

If ExpressCard modules use direct connections to PCIe and USB ports, then data transfer speed improves, but the cost of slot implementations increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidimplementation cost

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Interface controllers serve as intermediaries between the ExpressCard slot and the host platform's PCIe and USB ports. These controllers manage data transmission, protocol conversion, and signal routing, enabling high-speed direct connections while abstracting the complexity and cost of implementing dual interface support directly in the slot hardware.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS7779184B2Method of using the dual bus interface in an expresscard slot

Publication Date: 2010.08.17 SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC

AI summary

A peripheral device is disclosed having two associated memory modules, and which is configured to fit within the ExpressCard slot. One memory module communicates with a host over the PCIe bus interface of the ExpressCard slot, while the other memory module communicates with the host over the USB interface of the ExpressCard slot.