Multiple Interface Device Port Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data transfer devices lack flexibility in interfacing with multiple host devices and peripheral devices, limiting the convenience and expansion capabilities of storage or docking functions.
Innovation Solution
A multiple interface device with various upstream and downstream ports, including Thunderbolt™, USB, and other types, equipped with processors to detect connections and route signals between ports, enabling seamless communication and expansion through signal conversion and switching mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a data transfer device has only a single upstream interface, then the device structure is simple, but the user cannot choose between multiple interfaces for data transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The external storage device is designed with multiple upstream interfaces (e.g., USB 2.0, USB 3.0, Thunderbolt) of different types, enabling it to connect to and function with various host computing devices. This multi-functionality allows the same storage device to serve universal compatibility across different interface standards without requiring separate devices for each interface type.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a switching mechanism that dynamically routes data transfer operations between different upstream interfaces based on connection status and interface capabilities. The system can adaptively select which interface to use for data transfer, making the interface configuration dynamic rather than fixed, thereby resolving the contradiction between having multiple interfaces and maintaining simple structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an external storage device has only a single upstream interface connection, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot function as a docking station for peripheral devices
Solution Approach 1:
The downstream ports are configured to support multiple functions including connecting peripheral devices and enabling docking station operations. The same port infrastructure that enables data transfer also supports peripheral device connections, allowing the storage device to function universally as both a storage device and a docking station without requiring entirely separate connection pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The device separates upstream interfaces (for host computing device connections) from downstream ports (for peripheral device connections), creating distinct functional segments. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for its specific purpose while the overall system integrates both functions, enabling docking station capability without complicating the upstream connection structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If downstream ports are integrated internally inside the housing, then the device structure is compact, but the expansion capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device architecture segments internal integration from external expansion capabilities. Downstream ports are positioned to provide both internal connectivity for integrated components and external access points for peripheral device connections. This segmentation allows the housing to remain compact while still providing expansion capability through the downstream port interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a nested structure where peripheral devices can be connected through downstream ports and effectively nested within the docking station's functional ecosystem. The housing integrates multiple functions in a compact form, with downstream ports providing access to nested layers of connectivity and expansion capabilities without increasing the external housing dimensions significantly.
Data Source
AI summary
One aspect of a multiple data type interface device can include a plurality of upstream ports, wherein at least two of the upstream ports are of a different type, a plurality of downstream ports, wherein at least one of the plurality of downstream ports is configured to connect to an external device, and one or more processors configured to detect a connection at one of the plurality of upstream ports, and route an upstream port signal associated with one of the plurality of upstream ports to the at least one of the plurality of downstream ports configured to connect to the external device when the connection is detected at the one of the plurality of upstream.