External Storage Dual Interface Switching for Simultaneous Charging and Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer electronic products with two different type interfaces can only connect to one electronic device at a time, leading to inconvenience and abnormal operation when trying to connect to two devices simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
An external storage device with multiple interfaces and switching modules that allows simultaneous connection to two electronic devices, enabling charging and data access without the need for additional cables, and compatibility with various interface types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a consumer electronic product uses only one interface to connect to an electronic device, then the connection is stable and simple, but the product cannot simultaneously connect to multiple electronic devices
Solution Approach 1:
The connection function is segmented into two independent interfaces (first interface and second interface), each capable of connecting to different electronic devices separately. This allows simultaneous connections without interference, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity by dividing the connection capability into independent segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The consumer electronic product is designed with multi-functional capability to support both first type and second type interfaces, enabling it to connect to different types of electronic devices (such as smartphones and tablets) simultaneously. This universal design allows the product to adapt to multiple connection scenarios without requiring separate devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two different type interfaces are simultaneously connected to two electronic devices, then multi-device access is enabled, but the electronic devices and consumer electronic product may operate abnormally
Solution Approach 1:
A switching module is introduced as an intermediary between the two interfaces and the internal system. This switching module intelligently manages the connection states, routing data and power appropriately based on which devices are connected. It prevents conflicts by ensuring that only compatible operations occur simultaneously, thereby maintaining reliability while enabling multi-device access.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection management is made dynamic through the switching module, which can adaptively change connection states based on real-time conditions. When both interfaces are connected, the system dynamically determines which interface handles data transmission and which handles charging, or how to share power resources. This dynamic adjustment prevents operational conflicts and maintains system stability.
3Ease of operation
If an additional cable is used for charging when accessing external storage, then charging function is separated from data access, but user convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The charging function and data access function are merged into a single connection interface. When a device is connected via the first interface, both data transfer and power supply occur through this same interface, eliminating the need for a separate charging cable. This merging of functions directly improves ease of operation by reducing the number of required cables and simplifying the user experience.
Data Source
AI summary
An external storage device includes a memory, a controller, a first interface, a second interface, a first switching module, and a second switching module. The controller is coupled to the memory. The first interface is used to connect to a first electronic device. The second interface used to connect to a second electronic device. The first switching module is coupled to the controller, the first interface, and the second interface. The second switching module is coupled to the controller, the first interface, the second interface, and the first switching module. When the first interface is electrically connected to a first electronic device and the second interface is electrically connected to the second electronic device, the first electronic device charges the controller and the second electronic device through the first switching module, and the first electronic device accesses the memory through the second switching module and the controller.