Modular Memory Chain with Flexible Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
USB thumb drives have limited expandability and portability, as they can only accept one device and are prone to loss due to their small size, requiring frequent swapping or multiple-port units for multiple devices.
Innovation Solution
A modular linking assembly with flexible connectors that allows multiple memory module packages to be connected electrically and mechanically, enabling them to be read and written through a single USB slot and can be assembled into decorative chains for personal carrying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple thumb drives are used to increase memory capacity, then memory capacity is improved, but device complexity and port swapping requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple memory modules are merged into a single integrated assembly where individual memory modules are connected via flexible connectors to form a chain-like structure that interfaces with a single USB slot, eliminating the need for multiple separate thumb drives
2Volume of moving object
If thumb drive size is reduced to improve portability, then portability is improved, but reliability and loss prevention worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple small memory modules are combined into a single larger assembly that can be worn as jewelry, transforming the form factor from a small portable drive to a wearable accessory that is less prone to loss
Solution Approach 2:
The memory assembly serves dual functions as both a storage device and a decorative jewelry item (necklace, bracelet, or anklet), allowing it to be worn on the body for secure carrying while maintaining its data storage capability
3Ease of operation
If a single USB slot is used to simplify connectivity, then ease of operation is improved, but memory capacity and expandability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The memory system is segmented into multiple independent memory modules that can be individually added or removed from the chain, allowing capacity expansion while maintaining a single USB interface
Solution Approach 2:
The connection topology changes from a single-point connection to a chain-like structure where memory modules are linked in series, enabling multiple modules to communicate through a single USB slot via the flexible connector chain
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 multiple memory module packages to be connected and carried efficiently without the need for swapping or multiple-port units, while allowing for flexible and secure carrying as a decorative chain, enhancing portability and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a plastic elastomer flexibly connecting the first casing and the second casing
Implementation Method 2
The plastic elastomer has a plurality of conductive wiring electrically connecting the first connecting terminals with the second connecting terminals
Implementation Method 3
the first connecting terminals electrically contact the expanding fingers of the corresponding memory module component. The second casing is configured for mechanically connecting the other end of another memory module component so that the second connecting terminals electrically contact the USB contact fingers
Data Source
AI summary
A modular linking assembly of memory module packages primarily comprises a plurality of memory module components and at least a flexible connector. A plurality of USB contact fingers and a plurality of expanding fingers are formed on two opposing sides of the outer surface on each memory module component. The flexible connector has a first casing, a second casing and a plastic elastomer connecting the first casing to the second casing. The first casing has a plurality of first connecting terminals for electrically contacting the expanding fingers. The second casing has a plurality of second connecting terminals for electrically contacting the USB contact fingers. The plastic elastomer has a plurality of conductive wiring electrically connecting the first terminals to the second terminals so that the connected memory module components are electrically connected to each other to increase readable memory capacities with only one USB slot. Moreover, the connected memory module components can be flexible to be connected into a decorative chain for personal carrying such as a necklace, a bracelet or an anklet. In another embodiment, at least one of the memory module components can be replaced with a dummy component.