Expandable M.2 Interface Board with RAID and Multi-Protocol Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smaller-sized electronic products often have limited expansion capabilities due to a single M.2 interface connector, restricting the insertion of additional M.2 interface boards and functional devices, which limits their functionality.
Innovation Solution
An expandable interface board conforming to the M.2 interface standard protocol, featuring multiple data storage elements, a RAID module, and connection seats for inserting external devices, allowing for data transmission and expansion of functions by supporting various interface protocols such as SATA, USB, and PCIe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a single M.2 interface connector is configured in smaller-sized electronic products, then the device size is reduced, but the expansion capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The interface board is segmented into multiple functional modules including a controller, multiple connection seats (first connection seat for M.2 interface, second connection seat for other interfaces), and data storage elements. This segmentation allows each module to independently serve specific functions while collectively providing expanded connectivity capabilities within a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface board integrates multiple interface types (M.2, SATA, USB, PCIe, etc.) into a single board that can connect to various electronic devices. The controller is configured to manage multiple connection seats with different interface protocols, enabling the board to universally connect to diverse devices including storage devices, display devices, network devices, and audio devices, thereby resolving the limitation of single-interface connectors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connection seats are integrated into the interface board, then the expansion capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple interface functions (M.2, SATA, USB, PCIe) are merged into a single interface board controlled by one controller. The controller integrates multiple connection seats and data storage elements, consolidating what would traditionally require separate cards or modules into one unified board, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining expansion capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface board employs a nested structure where data storage elements are integrated within the board, and multiple connection seats are arranged in a compact layout. The first connection seat for M.2 interface and second connection seat for other interfaces are nested on the same board, with components efficiently spaced to minimize board size while providing multiple connection options.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an expandable interface board. The interface board is an interface board conforming to M.2 interface protocol specification, comprises a plurality of data storage elements, a data transmission interface, a controller, and at least one connection seat. The data transmission interface comprises a plurality of first interface pins and a plurality of second interface pins. The interface board is electrically connected to an external electronic device via the connection seat. Wherein the first interface pins are defined for transmitting data signals of the data storage elements, and the second interface pins are defined for transmitting data signals of the external electronic device. Accordingly, an electronic product applied by the interface board is able to expand it's functions by the external electronic device connected to the connection seat of the interface board.