MicroSD FPGA Compute Module for Reconfigurable Host Compatibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computing systems lack flexibility and scalability without requiring modifications on the host side, limiting their ability to adapt to evolving data processing demands and specific requirements.

Innovation Solution

A compute device incorporating a microSD card with mounted Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) that can be reconfigured via custom bitstreams, allowing seamless integration and operation without altering the host system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional computing systems are used, then host system compatibility is maintained, but flexibility and scalability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidhost system modification
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into a host component (microSD card form factor) and a processor component (FPGA). The host can be easily replaced or reconfigured without modifying the processor, enabling flexibility while maintaining simple host system integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The FPGA processor can be reconfigured to perform multiple different computing tasks through programmable logic. A single physical device serves universal computing purposes, replacing the need for multiple specialized systems while maintaining compatibility with standard microSD interfaces.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If computing systems are made more flexible through reconfiguration, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovescalabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The FPGA processor transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The processor can be reprogrammed via microSD card to adapt to different computing demands, providing scalability without requiring a complex fixed architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The microSD card interface acts as an intermediary between the host system and the FPGA processor. This standard interface simplifies the connection, allowing complex reconfigurable computing capabilities to be accessed through a simple, well-defined protocol without increasing host system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If FPGAs are mounted on microSD card, then computing capabilities are enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing capabilitiesVSAvoidassembly process
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The FPGA processor and microSD card are merged into a single integrated unit. This combination allows the complex FPGA assembly to be pre-manufactured and tested as a complete module, simplifying the overall manufacturing process compared to integrating separate processor and storage components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP4607364A1Compute device
Publication Date: 2025.08.27 SIGNALOID LTD
  • EP4607364A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4607364A1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP4607364A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a compute device, comprising a micro Secure Digital, microSD, card; and one or more Field Programmable Gate Arrays, FPGAs, installed on the microSD card.