Solid State Storage Carrier for HDD Enclosure Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a growing need for increased data storage capacity while minimizing the need for new storage system infrastructure, as existing storage systems are often designed for hard disk drives (HDD) and not optimized for solid state storage devices, which limits the efficient use of emerging technologies like M.2 form factor storage devices.
Innovation Solution
A solid state storage carrier is designed to fit into existing HDD storage enclosures, utilizing a support printed circuit board (PCB) to house multiple M.2 storage modules, which can be configured to match the form factor of 2.5 inch or 3.5 inch HDDs, enabling dense packaging and integration with existing storage systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing storage systems are designed for hard disk drives (HDD), then compatibility with traditional storage infrastructure is maintained, but storage capacity and efficiency are limited when using solid state storage devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing multiple M.2 solid state storage devices inside a single 2.5-inch form factor carrier. The carrier housing contains a support PCB with multiple M.2 connectors, allowing several small storage devices to be nested within the footprint of one traditional drive bay, thereby increasing storage capacity while maintaining compatibility with existing HDD infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the traditional single-drive carrier into multiple functional units by dividing the support PCB into sections with multiple M.2 connectors. This segmentation allows individual M.2 storage devices to be independently installed and managed within the unified carrier structure, enabling flexible configuration and increased overall storage capacity.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple solid state storage devices are packaged in a single carrier, then storage capacity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is designed as a universal interface that combines multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for multiple M.2 devices, electrical connectivity through a single midplane connector, thermal management pathways, and a standardized form factor interface. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture despite housing multiple devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple M.2 storage devices, their connectors, and support structures into a single integrated carrier assembly. By combining these elements into one unified component that interfaces with the midplane as a single unit, the design reduces complexity at the system level even though the carrier itself contains multiple internal components.
3Use of energy by moving object
If solid state storage devices are used instead of HDD, then power consumption and heat generation are reduced, but compatibility with existing storage enclosures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the form factor parameter of solid state storage devices from standard M.2 to a custom 2.5-inch carrier format. This parameter change allows the devices to physically fit into existing 2.5-inch HDD bays while maintaining the low power consumption and heat generation characteristics of solid state technology. The carrier dimensions are specifically designed to match traditional drive bay specifications.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a storage system comprising a solid state storage carrier sized to correspond to a defined storage form factor and to include a support printed circuit board (PCB) having arranged thereon a plurality of solid state storage devices. The storage system can include a storage enclosure including a midplane and at least one slot on an end of the storage enclosure, sized to receive a solid state storage carrier for connection with the midplane in the storage enclosure. The storage system can also include at least one midplane connector located on the midplane, wherein the at least one midplane connector is configured to mate with at least one form factor connector on an end of the solid state storage carrier.