Dual-Connector Storage System Simultaneous Power and Data Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dual-connector storage systems cannot simultaneously provide power and memory access to computing devices, limiting their usability, especially when a single port is shared for both data transfer and charging, which is problematic for on-the-go use.
Innovation Solution
A dual-connector storage system with a controller that uses a first connector for memory access and a second connector for power, allowing the system to represent itself as a host to the computing device, enabling simultaneous power provision and memory access by reconfiguring connector pins and using host negotiation protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single connector is used for both data transfer and charging, then the device can be simpler and more universal, but it cannot simultaneously provide power and memory access
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into two separate connectors: a first connector (e.g., micro USB) dedicated to data transfer and memory access, and a second connector (e.g., USB Type-C) dedicated to power input. This segmentation allows each connector to be optimized for its specific function, enabling simultaneous power provision and memory access without the conflicts that arise from sharing a single connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system incorporates multiple connector types (micro USB and USB Type-C) to achieve universality. By having both connector types available, the system can interface with various computing devices that have different connector preferences, while internally routing power and data through separate paths to enable simultaneous operation.
2Ease of operation
If dual connectors are used for simultaneous power and memory access, then usability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically detects which connector is connected to a computing device and configures the system accordingly. When the first connector is connected, the controller enables memory access through that connector. When the second connector is connected, the controller enables power provision through that connector. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual configuration by the user, reducing operational complexity despite the dual-connector design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically reconfigures its operational mode based on connector connection status. The controller monitors the connection state of both connectors and switches between different operational configurations: data-only mode when only the first connector is connected, power-only mode when only the second connector is connected, and simultaneous power and data mode when both are connected. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to handle complexity internally while presenting a simple interface to the user.
3Power
If the storage system represents itself as a host, then power provision is enabled, but memory access control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is pre-configured with the capability to represent the storage system as a host when the second connector (power connector) is connected to a computing device. This preliminary configuration includes pre-programmed host negotiation protocols that automatically activate upon detecting the appropriate connection, eliminating the need for complex real-time decision-making and reducing the operational complexity of host negotiation.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-connector storage system and method for simultaneously providing power and memory access to a computing device are provided. In one embodiment, the storage system comprises a memory, a first connector, a second connector, and a controller. The controller is configured to provide power received from the second connector to a computing device connected with the first connector while also allowing the computing device to access the memory via the first connector. Other embodiments are provided.