SATA Interface Application Module Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The hardware architecture of computers and servers, with extension ports typically located at the rear, makes it difficult to access and utilize additional hard drives or modules, especially when servers are mounted in racks, restricting their use.
Innovation Solution
A method that configures a data communication interface to allow any extension port to be used for connecting application modules, such as data processing modules, by defining a correspondence between application data messages and memory addressing zones managed by the data storage interface, enabling transparent use without modifying the SATA controller or generating specific drivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If extension ports are located at the rear of machines, then hardware architecture is standardized, but accessibility and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling SATA ports to serve dual functions: their original data storage function and a new application module connection function. The system allows any SATA port to be dynamically configured for either purpose through software configuration, making the hardware architecture versatile and adaptable without physical modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer in the form of a driver or software interface that mediates between the application module and the SATA controller. This intermediary translates application-specific communication protocols into standard SATA commands, enabling rear ports to be accessed and configured flexibly without direct physical access constraints.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standard SATA layers are used without modification, then compatibility and ease of manufacture are maintained, but adaptability to new applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables SATA ports to perform multiple functions by implementing a configuration mechanism that allows the same physical interface to be used for both traditional storage devices and new application modules like encryption/decryption devices, achieving versatility without hardware changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the SATA interface through software configuration rather than hardware modification. By altering the functional state and communication mode of existing ports through driver-level parameters, the system achieves adaptability while maintaining hardware simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specific drivers or software interfaces are created for new applications, then adaptability improves, but device complexity and ease of manufacture deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal interface layer that can support multiple application types through a single standardized mechanism. Rather than developing separate drivers for each application module, the system uses one configurable interface that adapts to different applications, reducing development complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service through automatic configuration capabilities where the SATA port and application module can be paired and configured through standardized procedures without requiring complex manual driver development for each specific application scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
A data communication method is proposed which comprises: configuring a first application interface coupled operationally to a data storage management interface, for defining a correspondence between an application data message and a memory addressing zone managed by the data storage management interface; generating a data storage command on the basis of the memory addressing zone and the application data message; and issuing, by the first application interface, the data storage command message to the data storage management interface for sending the application data message to a second application interface, through the data storage management interface.