OPS-Port Network Expansion for Computing Devices Without Mainboard Changes

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Computing devices, such as conference interaction tablets, face challenges in accessing networks like 4G or 5G when there are no nearby Wi-Fi devices or when Wi-Fi fails, and modifying the mainboard circuit to add network access functions is costly and difficult.

Innovation Solution

An expansion apparatus with a network adapter connected via an OPS port to the computing device's mainboard, allowing access to additional networks like 4G or 5G without modifying the mainboard, using an OPS port for secure and efficient network expansion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the mainboard circuit is integrated with only a wireless network card supporting Wi-Fi, then the device structure is simple and manufacturing cost is low, but the device cannot access the network when Wi-Fi is unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork access capabilityVSAvoidmainboard circuit complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network access function is segmented from the mainboard circuit and placed in an external expansion apparatus. The mainboard retains only the Wi-Fi network card, while the 4G/5G network card is located in the expansion apparatus connected via OPS port. This segmentation allows the mainboard to remain simple while the device gains multi-network access capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The OPS port is designed with universal functionality to support multiple types of expansion apparatus, including network cards, graphics cards, and other functional modules. This multi-functionality allows the same interface to provide diverse capabilities without increasing mainboard complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the mainboard circuit is modified to add network access functions, then the device can access multiple networks, but the manufacturing cost and difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork access capabilityVSAvoidmainboard manufacturing ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The OPS port serves as an intermediary interface between the mainboard and the expansion apparatus. It provides a standardized connection that eliminates the need to modify the mainboard circuit, thereby maintaining ease of manufacturing while enabling extended functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If external devices are used to expand network access, then network functionality is improved, but the device structure becomes complex and aesthetic integrity is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork access capabilityVSAvoidoverall device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The expansion apparatus is designed to be integrated within the device structure, connecting to the mainboard via the OPS port. The network card and other components are nested within the expansion apparatus housing, which is in turn integrated into the device's internal structure. This nesting approach avoids external attachments that would compromise aesthetics while providing expanded functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The expansion apparatus merges multiple functions into a single integrated unit. The network card, power management components, and other functional elements are combined within the expansion apparatus, which connects to the mainboard through a unified OPS interface. This merging reduces overall structural complexity compared to using separate external devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12417202B2Expansion apparatus for cooperating with computing device as well as computing system

Publication Date: 2025.09.16 BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO LTD

AI summary

An expansion apparatus for incorporating with a computing device and a computing system including the expansion apparatus are disclosed. The computing device includes a first OPS port. The expansion apparatus includes: a second OPS port configured for coupling to the first OPS port of the computing device; and a network adapter configured for connecting the computing device to a network, wherein the network adapter is connected with a data terminal of the second OPS port for data communication.