Multi-Interface Memory Storage Device with Adaptive Control Circuit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional flash drives lack a control method to determine which connector is connected to a host system and provide different operation functions based on the connection, limiting their versatility in accommodating diverse usage scenarios.

Innovation Solution

A memory storage device with multiple connection interfaces and a memory control circuit unit that includes interfacing circuits to determine the connection configuration and provide different operation functions, such as multimedia access and security certification, by analyzing signals like power and data signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a flash drive includes only one connector, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different host systems is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different host systemsVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flash drive is designed with multiple connectors (first connector and second connector) that can connect to different types of host systems. The memory control circuit unit is configured to detect which connector is connected to a host system and provide different operation functions accordingly, enabling the same device to serve multiple purposes and connect to various host systems (computers, mobile phones, tablets, etc.).

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If a flash drive includes multiple connectors, then the adaptability to different host systems is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different host systemsVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The memory control circuit unit integrates multiple functions including detection of connector connection status, identification of host system type, and provision of different operation functions. By merging these functions into a single control unit, the patent reduces the overall device complexity while maintaining multi-connector adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The memory control circuit unit automatically detects which connector is connected to a host system and self-configures to provide appropriate operation functions without requiring manual intervention or complex external control mechanisms. This self-service capability simplifies the device structure while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the memory control circuit unit provides different operation functions based on connector connection, then the versatility is improved, but the control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation functionsVSAvoidcontrol method
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The memory control circuit unit is pre-configured with multiple operation functions and detection capabilities. Upon connection, it automatically performs detection and selects the appropriate function from the pre-configured options, eliminating the need for complex real-time decision-making or manual configuration during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The memory control circuit unit detects the connection status of different connectors and uses this feedback information to dynamically select and activate the appropriate operation function. This feedback mechanism enables automatic adaptation to different host systems without requiring complex control algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9760509B2Memory storage device and control method thereof and memory control circuit unit and module
Publication Date: 2017.09.12 PHISON ELECTRONICS
  • US9760509B2 patent drawing
  • US9760509B2 patent drawing
  • US9760509B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A memory storage device including a first and a second connection interface units, a memory control circuit unit and an interfacing circuit is provided. The first connection interface unit and the second connection interface unit are electrically connected to an input/output channel of the memory control circuit unit. The interfacing circuit is disposed between the memory control circuit unit and at least one of the first and the second connection interface units. The interfacing circuit is configured to provide determination information of an electrically connecting configuration between at least one host system and the at least one of the first and the second connection interface units. The memory control circuit unit is configured to provide different operation functions to the at least one host system based on the determination information.