Smart USB Module Wireless Data Access Without Host Computer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional USB drives require a host computer to function, limiting instant access and data transfer capabilities, as they act as 'dump' devices and cannot be accessed without a connected computer.
Innovation Solution
A smart USB module and device system that includes a CPU, USB connectors, and wireless capabilities, allowing for automatic switching between client and smart modes, enabling data access and transfer via any USB-power adapter without a host computer, using standards like IEEE802.11 or Bluetooth for wireless connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional USB drives are used as dump devices requiring host computer connection, then data transfer functionality is provided, but instant access and portability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The USB drive is enhanced with a CPU, wireless transceiver, and power management circuitry to perform multiple functions: traditional data transfer via USB connector, wireless data transfer via IEEE 802.11 or Bluetooth, and autonomous operation without host computer. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling the device to adapt to different access scenarios while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The smart USB drive incorporates a CPU and power management system that enables it to operate autonomously without requiring connection to a host computer. The device can manage its own power consumption, establish wireless connections, and access stored data independently, thereby achieving instant access and portability while maintaining data transfer capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If USB drive requires host computer for data transfer, then data transfer capability is achieved, but device complexity increases when adding smart functions
Solution Approach 1:
The smart USB drive system is divided into distinct functional modules: a CPU for processing, a wireless transceiver for wireless communication, a power management circuit for power control, and the traditional USB storage interface. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while keeping the overall design manageable and reducing the complexity burden of integrating multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines traditional USB storage functionality with smart computing and wireless communication capabilities into a single integrated device. By merging the USB drive, CPU, wireless transceiver, and power management circuitry into one unit, the system achieves enhanced adaptability while containing the complexity within a compact form factor that can be manufactured as a single product.
3Productivity
If conventional USB drive is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but instant data access without host computer is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The smart USB drive includes a rechargeable battery and power management circuit that are pre-configured during manufacturing to enable autonomous operation. The CPU and wireless transceiver are pre-installed and configured to facilitate instant data access without requiring host computer connection. These preliminary preparations allow the device to achieve high productivity in data access while the manufacturing process remains scalable through modular assembly of pre-configured components.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for data storage are disclosed. In a first aspect, the system comprises a printed circuit board, a central processing unit (CPU) coupled to the printed circuit board, an USB connector coupled to the CPU, and an USB receptacle connector coupled to the CPU. In a second aspect, the system is a smart USB device that includes a smart USB module and a USB drive coupled to the smart USB module.