Flash Memory Contact Design for USB 2.0 and 3.0 Compatibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current flash memory devices are not compatible with both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 receptacle connectors, as they have different contact configurations, limiting their ability to meet the varying signal transmission demands.

Innovation Solution

A flash memory device with a Chip-On-Board (COB) type circuit board and a combination of first and second contacts, where the second contacts are deformable to accommodate USB 2.0 connectors and jointly connect with USB 3.0 connectors, ensuring compatibility with both standards.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a flash memory device uses a single contact configuration, then it can be manufactured simply, but it cannot be compatible with both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 receptacle connectors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 connectorsVSAvoidcontact configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The contact structure is divided into two separate contact configurations: a first contact configuration for USB 2.0 compatibility and a second contact configuration for USB 3.0 compatibility. This segmentation allows each contact type to be optimized for its specific connector standard while coexisting on the same flash memory device, thereby achieving multi-standard compatibility without requiring a completely redesign for each standard.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The flash memory device is designed with universal adaptability by incorporating both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 contact configurations simultaneously. The device can function with either connector type, making it a multi-functional product that serves both legacy USB 2.0 devices and newer USB 3.0 devices, thereby expanding its market applicability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the second contact portions are made deformable to accommodate USB 2.0 connectors, then USB 2.0 compatibility is achieved, but the contact reliability may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with USB 2.0 connectorVSAvoidcontact connection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The second contact portions are designed with deformable characteristics that allow them to dynamically adapt to the USB 2.0 connector geometry. This dynamic flexibility enables the contacts to bend and conform to the recessed configuration of USB 2.0 receptacles, ensuring reliable electrical connection despite the structural differences between USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 connectors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables seamless data transmission with both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 connectors by adapting contact configurations, enhancing compatibility and performance.

Implementation Method 1

the second contact portions are driven to be downwardly deformable so that only the first contact portions electrically connect with the USB 2.0 receptacle connector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8292672B2Flash memory device and assembly thereof with improved planar contact portions
Publication Date: 2012.10.23 A DATA TECH (SUZHOU) CO LTD
  • US8292672B2 patent drawing
  • US8292672B2 patent drawing
  • US8292672B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A flash memory device includes a Chip-On-Board (COB) type circuit board and a number of first and second contacts electrically connected to the circuit board. Each first contact includes a stiff first contact portion formed on an upper surface of the circuit board. Each second contact includes a cantilevered planar second contact portion extending along the front-to-rear direction. When the flash memory device is inserted into a USB 3.0 receptacle connector, the first and the second contact portions jointly electrically connect with the USB 3.0 receptacle connector. The planar second contact portions provide larger contacting area for mating with the corresponding contacts of the USB 3.0 receptacle connector.